Anomaly Scan
This ultrasound examination (also known as an anomaly scan) provides a detailed scan of your developing baby and is considered to be routine practice for all pregnant women in Australia. At Spectrum, we recommend booking your morphology scan after 19 weeks gestation.
What is the purpose of the scan?
At this stage the sonographer and doctor are able to look at the baby’s anatomy (this involves a detailed examination of the baby’s head/brain, face, heart, stomach, kidneys, bladder, spine and limbs) They can also check the position of the placenta in relation to your cervix, the length of the cervix and fluid around your baby.
Why is this scan carried out after 19 weeks gestation?
This is thought to be the optimal time to visualise the baby’s anatomy, allowing accurate assessment of the internal organs and limbs. The timing of the scan also allows further testing should an abnormality be found.
What abnormalities can be detected?
Despite advanced technology and the very experienced medical professionals at our practice ultrasound does not detect all abnormalities a baby can have. There are some abnormalities that are only evident later in the pregnancy such as some cardiac defects and bowel abnormalities There are conditions such as cerebral palsy and chromosomal abnormalities that cannot be detected at all. This scan provides reassurance for you and your doctor however dos not guarantee a normal baby or that you will have no pregnancy complications.
Do I need a full bladder?
Fluid in your bladder provides a “window” to get better images on your scan. It also helps push the uterus (womb) up from your pelvis and bowel out of the way to better visualise your baby, uterus and cervix. We suggest you empty your bladder an hour before your appointment and drink ¾ of a litre of water and then try not to empty your bladder until after your appointment (your bladder does not need to be so full that it is painful)
Is ultrasound safe for my baby?
Yes ultrasound is safe. Ultrasound scans have been used for over 50 years. They use sound waves and not ionizing radiation like that used in x-rays and CT scans. Long term studies have shown that there is no adverse effect on the baby from an ultrasound scan performed before birth. Follow-up has shown normal growth and development, normal eyesight and hearing and a normal range of school performance.
Will I need any more scans after this?
Usually everything can be assessed on one scan, however in 5-10% cases another scan later that day or on another day may need to be performed when the baby is in another position or when the baby is bigger.