About USG ANOMALY SCAN

A USG anomaly scan, also known as a prenatal anatomy scan, 20-week ultrasound, or level 2 ultrasound, is a crucial prenatal test performed during pregnancy. It's a safe and painless imaging technique that uses sound waves to create detailed pictures of your developing baby and the surrounding structures in your uterus.

Here's what a USG anomaly scan typically involves:

• Timing: This scan is usually performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy, most commonly around 20 weeks. This timeframe allows for a clear view of the fetus as it's grown enough to be examined comprehensively.

• Procedure: During the scan, a qualified sonographer will apply a lubricating gel to your abdomen and gently glide a transducer (probe) over the area. The transducer emits sound waves that bounce off your baby and other structures, creating images on a screen for the doctor to examine. The entire procedure typically takes 20-30 minutes.

• What the scan examines: The sonographer will meticulously assess various aspects of your baby's development, including:

  • Fetal anatomy: This includes examining the head, face, spine, heart, brain, stomach, intestines, kidneys, bladder, limbs, and hands and feet for any potential abnormalities.
  • Amniotic fluid level: The amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby is measured as it's crucial for proper development.
  • Placenta location and health: The position and health of the placenta, which nourishes the baby, is evaluated.
  • Multiple pregnancy: If you're carrying twins or multiples, their positions and development will also be checked.

Benefits of a USG anomaly scan:

• Early detection of potential problems: This scan can help identify potential birth defects or developmental issues early in pregnancy. Early detection allows for further investigations, genetic testing, and informed decision-making regarding the pregnancy and future care.
• Peace of mind: If the scan shows normal development, it can provide significant reassurance about your baby's well-being.
• Planning for delivery: Information from the scan, such as the baby's position and estimated size, can help doctors plan for a safe delivery.

Limitations of a USG anomaly scan:

• Not 100% foolproof: While highly effective, the scan may not detect all potential abnormalities.
• Image quality: Factors like maternal weight or the baby's position can sometimes limit the clarity of the images.

Following the scan:

• The sonographer or doctor will discuss the scan results with you, explaining any observations and potential next steps.
• If there are any concerns, they may recommend further testing for confirmation or additional monitoring.

Overall, a USG anomaly scan is a valuable tool for assessing your baby's health during pregnancy. It offers peace of mind for many expecting parents and allows for early detection of potential issues, leading to better outcomes.