Anomaly scan or Level 2 scan

Bonding scan..really!! A level 2 ultrasound or anomaly scan is a special test that gives you a very specific glimpse of your growing baby.

Fetal Anomaly Scan: A Key Milestone in Pregnancy

Pregnancy is marked by many milestones, such as the first positive test, the initial appointment, reaching the 12-week mark, and feeling the first kicks.

An anomaly scan, also known as a mid-pregnancy or fetal anomaly scan, is an ultrasound examination performed typically between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. This detailed scan assesses the development of the fetus and checks for any abnormalities. Here are the key aspects of an anomaly scan:

Why Have a Fetal Anomaly Scan?

All women, regardless of age, have a small risk of delivering a baby with structural abnormalities that can cause physical or mental limitations. Many of these abnormalities can be diagnosed and ruled out with a fetal anomaly scan.

Purpose of Anomaly Scan:

1. Examine Fetal Anatomy: The scan checks the baby's physical development, looking closely at the brain, spine, heart, kidneys, and limbs.

2. Detect Congenital Anomalies: It can identify conditions such as spina bifida, cleft lip, and heart defects.

3. Monitor Growth: The scan assesses if the fetus is growing normally for its gestational age.

4. Check Amniotic Fluid: It measures the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby, which can indicate the health of the pregnancy.

5. Placenta Position: The scan also determines the position of the placenta to ensure it is not covering the cervix (placenta previa), which could complicate delivery.

6. Multiple Pregnancies: It confirms the number of fetuses and checks for any complications in multiple pregnancies.

What Might Be Seen?

While most serious abnormalities can be detected on a scan, it is not possible to see all problems, and some may only be found after birth. Conditions like cerebral palsy and autism cannot be detected on a scan.

During the scan, the doctor measures parts of the baby's body to assess growth. Some conditions, such as certain heart defects and bowel obstructions, may not be visible until later in pregnancy. However, the anomaly scan can often rule out many conditions, as the majority of babies are born healthy.

The quality of the scan image depends on various factors, including the baby's position and the mother's size. For instance, it may be more challenging to see the baby clearly if the mother is overweight, affecting the ability to detect problems.

Can Down Syndrome or Chromosomal Abnormalities Be Seen on the Scan?

The anomaly scan can identify 50% to 60% of cases of Down syndrome, though the First Trimester Screening (FTS) test is more effective. Since 30% to 50% of Down syndrome cases appear normal on ultrasound, only an amniocentesis (testing the fluid surrounding the baby for its chromosomes) can provide certain information.

Procedure:

• Preparation: Usually, no special preparation is needed, but some clinics may ask you to have a full bladder.

• Process: During the scan, you will lie on an examination table, and a gel will be applied to your abdomen. A sonographer will use a transducer to create images of the baby on a screen.

• Duration: The scan typically takes 20 to 30 minutes.

Benefits:

• Provides reassurance about the baby's development.

• Helps in planning any necessary medical care or interventions if abnormalities are detected.

• Allows for early detection and management of potential complications.

Limitations:

• While the scan can detect many anomalies, it cannot identify all possible issues.

• Occasionally, the position of the baby may make it difficult to get clear images of certain areas.What If There Are Signs of a Problem?

What If There Are Signs of a Problem?

If a problem is detected or suspected, you will be informed immediately. Repeat scans may be necessary if the baby is not in a good position, with the follow-up scan typically scheduled after a week or two. If a heart problem is suspected, a detailed fetal echo scan will be conducted.

In the event of a serious problem being detected, you will receive support and guidance through all available options. Although serious problems are rare, some families may face the difficult decision of whether to continue the pregnancy. Other issues may require surgery or treatment after birth.

The anomaly scan is a crucial part of prenatal care, helping ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing baby. If you have any concerns or questions about the scan, discussing them with your healthcare provider is recommended.