Steps
What Is an Anatomy Scan?
It's an ultrasound done around 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy that:
- Helps check your baby’s growth and development.
- Looks at your baby’s organs, bones, heart, brain, spine, and more.
- Can help spot birth defects or issues early on.
- May reveal your baby’s gender (if you want to know).
How to Prepare
- Drink plenty of water beforehand so you can get a clear picture of your baby.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing. You may need to lift or adjust your shirt for the ultrasound.
- You do not need to fast or change your diet.
- You may want to bring a partner, friend, or family member for support if allowed.
What to Expect
- Anatomy scans can take time. Be prepared to spend up to an hour getting the ultrasound.
- If your baby is moving around, it might be hard to see all its body parts. In that case, you may be asked to come back for another appointment.
Understanding Your Results
A normal result means your baby’s growth and development are on track.
If the scan shows something unusual, your doctor will explain what it means. Sometimes a follow-up scan or tests may be needed to get more information.
Keep in mind the scan is mostly accurate, but it can't detect every possible issue.
This ultrasound allows you to see your baby and checks on their growth and development.
