Anatomy scan screening

Overview

An anatomy scan is a detailed ultrasound scan done during pregnancy. It uses sound waves to create pictures of your baby inside the womb. The scan checks your baby's body for any structural problems—how the bones, heart, brain, and other organs are formed. It is also called a mid-pregnancy or anomaly scan.

Yes. The anatomy scan is a standard part of prenatal care in many countries. Most pregnant women are offered this test.

It affects pregnant women. The scan is done on the baby, but the information is important for both you and your healthcare team.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• The anatomy scan is not for symptoms—it is a routine screening.
• Most women have no symptoms and the baby is found to be developing normally.
• The scan can sometimes find issues that were not suspected before.

Causes

Main causes

• Structural problems found on the scan can have many causes.
• Some are due to changes in the baby's genes or chromosomes.
• Some are linked to things that happen during pregnancy, like infections or certain medicines.
• For many conditions, the exact cause is unknown.

Risk factors

• Being age 35 or older.
• Having a family history of certain birth defects.
• Having certain infections during pregnancy (for example, rubella).
• Using certain medications or substances during pregnancy.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, or fluid loss before your scheduled scan.
• If you feel your baby is moving much less than usual.

Book a routine appointment if:

• At the time your doctor or midwife schedules the anatomy scan—usually around 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Diagnosis

The anatomy scan is performed by a trained sonographer or doctor. It uses sound waves to create images of the baby inside the womb. The scan looks for any structural problems in the baby's body.

Tests that may be done

• Ultrasound scan (also called sonogram).

What to expect at your appointment

You will lie on an exam table. A gel is applied to your belly, and a small handheld device (called a transducer) is moved over your skin. The scan is painless and usually takes 20 to 45 minutes. You can see the images on a screen. The sonographer may explain what they see, but a full report is sent to your doctor.

Treatment

If the scan finds a problem, your doctor will explain what it means and discuss next steps. Many findings are minor and need no treatment during pregnancy. For more serious problems, a team of specialists (like a fetal medicine doctor, pediatric surgeon, or cardiologist) will help you plan care during the rest of your pregnancy and after birth.

Self-care at home

• Keep all your prenatal appointments, including this scan.
• Ask your doctor or midwife any questions you have.
• Eat a healthy diet, rest when you need to, and stay active as advised by your healthcare provider.

Medical treatments

If a problem is found, further tests like a more detailed ultrasound, amniocentesis (sampling the fluid around the baby), or fetal MRI (a special scan) might be offered. Treatment after birth may include medication, surgery, or other care. Your healthcare team will talk with you about all options.

When is surgery considered?

Some conditions found on the scan, like certain heart defects or abdominal wall problems, may require surgery shortly after the baby is born. Your doctors will plan the delivery and care to make sure your baby gets the right treatment quickly.

Living with this condition

If the scan shows a concern, you may need extra check-ups and scans. Most pregnancies continue normally, and you can still do your usual daily activities. Your healthcare team will guide you.

Lifestyle tips

• Attend all recommended appointments.
• Limit stress—talk to your partner, family, or a counsellor if you feel anxious.
• Avoid alcohol, smoking, and illegal drugs during pregnancy.

Diet and exercise

Continue eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Gentle exercise like walking or swimming is usually safe. Always check with your doctor if you are unsure.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Waiting for scan results or hearing that something might be wrong can be very worrying. It is normal to feel anxious, scared, or sad. Talk to someone you trust. If you feel overwhelmed or depressed, reach out to a mental health professional or a support line. You are not alone.

Prevention

Many structural problems cannot be prevented. However, taking folic acid every day before and during early pregnancy reduces the risk of some neural tube defects (problems with the spine or brain). Staying up to date with vaccines (like rubella) before pregnancy can also help.

Vaccines

Some infections that can cause birth defects are preventable with vaccines, such as rubella. Make sure you are vaccinated before getting pregnant. During pregnancy, the flu and whooping cough vaccines are recommended for your health and the baby's.

Screening programmes

The anatomy scan itself is a screening test. It does not prevent problems, but it helps find them early. Early detection can lead to better planning and care for you and your baby.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a structural problem is found but not followed up, it could affect the baby's health at birth or later in life.
• Some conditions may require urgent medical attention right after delivery.
• Without proper care, some problems could lead to long-term disabilities.

Long-term outlook

The great majority of anatomy scans show a healthy baby with no problems. If a problem is detected, early knowledge gives you and your healthcare team time to plan for the best care. Many conditions can be treated or managed successfully. With today's medicine, outcomes for babies with congenital conditions have improved a lot. Your team will support you every step of the way.

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