Pregnancy Scans: A Complete Guide to Ultrasound Scans During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an exciting journey, and pregnancy scans play a vital role in monitoring the health and development of both mother and baby. These scans, also known as pregnancy ultrasound scans, provide valuable medical information while offering parents a first glimpse of their growing baby.

In this guide, we explain the different types of pregnancy scans, when they are done, and why they are important.

What Is a Pregnancy Scan?

A pregnancy scan is a safe and painless sonography examination that uses sound waves to create images of the baby inside the womb. Ultrasound scans are routinely performed throughout pregnancy to check fetal growth, detect abnormalities, and confirm gestational age.

Pregnancy scans do not use radiation, making them safe for both mother and baby.

Types of Pregnancy Scans

1. Early Pregnancy Scan (Dating Scan)

When: 6–9 weeks

Purpose:

• Confirm pregnancy

• Detect fetal heartbeat

• Determine gestational age

• Check for multiple pregnancies (twins or more)

• Rule out ectopic pregnancy

This scan helps accurately calculate the expected due date (EDD).

2. Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan

When: 11–13 weeks

Purpose:

• Assess risk of chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome

• Measure fluid at the back of the baby’s neck

• Often combined with blood tests for screening

3. Anomaly Scan (Level II Scan)

When: 18–22 weeks

Purpose:

• Detailed assessment of fetal anatomy

• Check brain, heart, spine, kidneys, and limbs

• Detect congenital abnormalities

• Evaluate placenta position and amniotic fluid

This is one of the most important pregnancy scans.

4. Growth Scan

When: Usually after 28 weeks (as advised by your doctor)

Purpose:

• Monitor baby’s growth and weight

• Check amniotic fluid levels

• Assess placenta and blood flow

• Ensure baby is developing normally

5. Doppler Scan

When: Typically in the third trimester

Purpose:

• Measure blood flow in the umbilical cord and fetal vessels

• Assess placental function

• Recommended in high-risk pregnancies (diabetes, hypertension, growth restriction)

  
  

Are Pregnancy Scans Safe?

Yes. Ultrasound pregnancy scans are completely safe when performed by trained professionals. They have been used for decades in prenatal care with no proven risks to mother or baby.

How to Prepare for a Pregnancy Scan

• Drink water before early scans (full bladder may be required)

• Wear comfortable clothing

• Bring previous scan reports if available

• Follow your doctor’s instructions

Why Pregnancy Scans Are Important

• Monitor fetal growth and development

• Detect complications early

• Guide medical decisions

• Provide reassurance to expectant parents

Regular pregnancy ultrasound scans help ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and baby.

Book Your Pregnancy Scan Today

If you are expecting, timely and accurate pregnancy scans are essential for a healthy pregnancy. Our experienced Female radiologist, Dr. Ankita Mundhe (MBBS MD RADIO-DIAGNOSIS) uses advanced ultrasound technology to provide high-quality pregnancy scans in a comfortable and caring environment.

📞 Contact us today to book your pregnancy scan or to learn more about our prenatal imaging services.