Anatomy scan pregnancy

Overview

The anatomy scan is a detailed ultrasound examination done during pregnancy, usually between 18 and 22 weeks. It checks your baby’s body structures, growth, and the placenta and amniotic fluid. It is also called the mid-pregnancy scan.

Yes, this scan is a standard part of prenatal care in many countries, including the UK, where the NHS offers it to all pregnant women.

The anatomy scan is for anyone who is pregnant and wants a detailed check of their baby’s development. It is usually offered to all pregnant women as part of routine antenatal care.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• The anatomy scan does not have symptoms – it is a screening test. Most women have no unusual signs before the scan.
• Common findings during the scan include a baby that is growing well and normal fluid levels.

Symptoms in children

• This section is not applicable because the anatomy scan is performed during pregnancy, not on children after birth.

Symptoms in older adults

• This section is not applicable because the anatomy scan is for pregnant people, not older adults.

Causes

Main causes

• The anatomy scan is not caused by anything – it is a planned examination to check your baby’s health.
• If the scan detects a structural problem, the cause is often unknown, but it may be related to genetics or environmental factors.

Risk factors

• There are no risk factors for needing an anatomy scan – it is offered to all pregnant women.
• Certain factors may increase the chance of finding an abnormality, such as having a family history of birth defects, being over 35, or having diabetes.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Contact your midwife or maternity unit urgently if you have any bleeding, severe pain, or if your baby seems less active than usual.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Attend all your routine antenatal appointments as scheduled. Your anatomy scan is usually offered around 18 to 22 weeks.

Diagnosis

The anatomy scan is performed by a trained sonographer using an ultrasound machine. You lie on a bed and a gel is applied to your belly. A small handheld device (probe) is moved over your abdomen to create images of your baby on a screen.

Tests that may be done

• Ultrasound scan (anatomy scan)
• Sometimes a transvaginal ultrasound may be needed if the baby is lying in a difficult position.

What to expect at your appointment

The scan takes about 20 to 30 minutes. It is not painful, but you may feel a little pressure. The sonographer will look at your baby’s organs and measure parts of the body. You can usually take a partner or support person. You will be told the results on the day or soon after.

Treatment

The anatomy scan itself is not a treatment. If the scan finds a problem, your healthcare team will discuss the next steps with you. These may include further tests, monitoring, or referral to a specialist.

Self-care at home

• Before the scan, drink plenty of water if advised – a full bladder can help get clearer images.
• After the scan, you can return to your normal activities.

Medical treatments

If the scan detects a condition, treatment depends on the specific problem. Options may include additional scans, blood tests, genetic testing, or consultation with a fetal medicine specialist. Your doctor will explain all possible options.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a usual part of the anatomy scan. In rare cases where a serious condition is found, surgery may be considered after birth, or sometimes during pregnancy in specialised centres. Your healthcare team will guide you.

Living with this condition

After your anatomy scan, you can continue with your daily life as normal. If results are reassuring, there is nothing extra to do. If further checks are needed, your team will support you.

Lifestyle tips

• Eat a balanced diet and stay active as recommended during pregnancy.
• Avoid alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs.
• Get plenty of rest and manage stress in healthy ways.

Diet and exercise

No special diet or exercise changes are needed because of the scan. Follow general pregnancy advice: eat a variety of foods, take folic acid if advised, and do moderate exercise like walking or swimming.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Waiting for scan results can cause anxiety. If results are unexpected, worry is normal. Talk to your midwife, doctor, or a counsellor. You are not alone.

Prevention

The anatomy scan does not prevent conditions – it detects them early. Some birth defects cannot be prevented, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy can reduce some risks.

Vaccines

Vaccinations during pregnancy, such as flu and whooping cough, are recommended to protect you and your baby, but they do not relate directly to the anatomy scan.

Screening programmes

The anatomy scan itself is a screening test. Other screening tests, such as blood tests earlier in pregnancy, can also check for certain conditions.

Complications

If left untreated

• The anatomy scan is not a treatment, so complications from not having it could include missing a problem that might need early attention.
• If an abnormality is found and not followed up, it could lead to unexpected issues during or after birth.

Long-term outlook

For the vast majority of pregnancies, the anatomy scan shows that the baby is developing well. If a problem is found, many conditions can be managed or treated, and support is available. Your healthcare team will help you plan the best care for you and your baby.

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