Pregnancy With Anomaly Scan
An anomaly scan, also known as a level 2 ultrasound or anatomy scan, is a detailed prenatal screening performed during the second trimester of pregnancy, typically between 18 and 22 weeks. The primary purpose of this non-invasive test is to examine the physical development of the fetus and rule out structural congenital conditions.During the procedure, a sonographer applies gel to the expectant mother's abdomen and uses a transducer probe to send high-frequency sound waves into the uterus. These waves bounce back to create real-time images of the baby on a monitor.The scan evaluates several critical anatomical elements:
- Fetal Organs: It examines the structure of the brain, heart chambers, kidneys, stomach, and diaphragm.
- Spine and Limbs: It checks the alignment of the spine, the presence of all four limbs, and individual fingers and toes.
- Facial Structures: It looks at the baby's profile to rule out conditions like a cleft lip.
- Support System: It measures amniotic fluid levels, assesses the umbilical cord, and determines the position of the placenta to ensure it isn't blocking the cervix (placenta previa).
While the scan offers reassurance to most parents, it can reveal unexpected variations that require further medical evaluation or specialized prenatal care. Expecting parents should always consult their obstetrician or healthcare provider to interpret specific scan reports.