Safeguarding new life

Pregnancy is one of the most exciting and anticipated events in a woman’s life. It is filled with excitement, anticipation and regular medical check-ups to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby. These check-ups are a must and include special scans that monitoring foetal development, identifying potential risks early and guiding timely interventions. These scans use advanced ultrasound technology to give doctors and parents a clearer understanding of the baby’s health at every stage. Read on to know more about the various scans that need to be done.

Early Pregnancy Scan (Dating Scan)

Usually performed between 6 and 10 weeks, this scan confirms pregnancy, checks the foetal heartbeat and determines the gestational age. It helps estimate the due date accurately and identifies whether it is a single or multiple pregnancy. This early assessment also rules out complications such as ectopic pregnancies or early pregnancy failure.

Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan

This scan usually takes place between 11 and 14 weeks. The NT scan measures the fluid-filled space at the back of the baby’s neck. Combined with blood tests, it helps screen for chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome and Patau syndrome. Although it is not a diagnostic test, it is invaluable as it provides valuable risk indications for further testing if required.

Anomaly Scan (Level II Scan)

This is one of the most important scans during pregnancy and is typically performed between 18 and 22 weeks. It provides a detailed view of the baby’s organs, including the heart, brain, spine, limbs, kidneys and abdominal structures. This scan helps detect structural abnormalities, congenital defects and placental issues. It also assesses the amniotic fluid level and foetal growth pattern. It is also a noteworthy scan as it often allows parents to see their baby clearly for the first time.

Foetal Echocardiography

This scan is usually recommended when there is a family history of heart defects, maternal diabetes or abnormal findings in the anomaly scan. Foetal echocardiography focuses specifically on the baby’s heart. Performed around 22 to 24 weeks, it evaluates the structure and functioning of the foetal heart, helping diagnose congenital heart conditions early.

Growth Scan

This scan is usually done in the third trimester, especially if there are concerns about foetal growth, maternal health conditions like hypertension or diabetes or reduced foetal movements. The growth scan measures the baby’s size, estimates weight, checks blood flow through the umbilical cord and ensures that the baby is growing appropriately.

Doppler Scan

A Doppler study assesses blood flow in the umbilical cord, placenta, and foetal vessels. It is a must in high-risk pregnancies where foetal growth restriction, preeclampsia or placental insufficiency is suspected. Early detection of abnormal blood flow helps doctors plan timely delivery and prevent complications.

BPP (Biophysical Profile)

BPP is a combination of ultrasound and non-stress tests (NST). This scan helps to evaluate foetal well-being by monitoring movements, breathing, muscle tone and amniotic fluid volume. It is typically recommended when there are concerns about decreased foetal activity or high-risk conditions.

The advantages of special scans

Special scans during pregnancy play manifold roles. On the one hand they provide reassurance while on the other they improve diagnostic accuracy and support safer outcomes for both mother and baby.