The anatomy scan: what is checked and questions to ask
Your mid-pregnancy scan, often around 18 to 21 weeks, takes a detailed look at your baby. Here is what to expect, what to ask and how to prepare your heart.
By PreggieLover 3 min read
The anatomy scan, sometimes called the anomaly scan, mid-pregnancy scan or 20-week scan, is a moment many parents look forward to for weeks. It is a chance to see your baby in much more detail. It is also a medical check, and it helps to understand what it is for before you go in. Here are the questions parents ask most.
When is the anatomy scan?
It is usually offered between about 18 and 21 weeks, although timings vary between countries and clinics. If you have not been given an appointment by around 18 weeks, contact your midwife or clinic.
What does the scan check?
The sonographer looks carefully at how your baby is growing and developing. They usually check:
- your baby's head and brain
- the face, including the lips
- the spine
- the heart and its chambers
- the stomach, kidneys and bladder
- the arms, legs, hands and feet
- your baby's size and growth
- where the placenta is lying, and the amount of fluid around your baby
The scan is not able to find every possible condition, but it gives your care team a lot of useful information.
How long does it take?
Often around 20 to 45 minutes. It can take longer if your baby is lying in an awkward position. Sometimes you will be asked to go for a walk, have a drink or come back another day so the sonographer can get a clearer view. This is common and does not on its own mean there is a problem.
Can I find out the sex?
In many places you can ask, if the sonographer is able to see clearly and if local policy allows. Some hospitals do not tell parents the sex. Decide beforehand whether you want to know, and tell the sonographer at the start.
Can I bring someone?
Usually yes, though rules about children and the number of guests vary. Check your appointment letter. Many parents like their husband, partner or a close friend there.
Why is the sonographer quiet?
Sonographers need to concentrate, take measurements and look at many structures in order. Silence is usually just focus. You can ask, Is it all right if you explain what you are looking at as you go?
What if they find something?
Most scans show a baby developing as expected. Sometimes the sonographer may see something that needs a closer look. If that happens, you will usually be offered a further scan or a referral to a specialist team, and time to talk through what it may mean. Some findings turn out to be nothing, some need monitoring, and some are more serious. Whatever you hear:
- you are allowed to ask for things to be explained again, slowly
- you can ask for written information and who to call with questions
- you do not have to make any decisions on the spot
- it is all right to feel shocked, sad or numb
Lean on the people who love you, and ask your midwife about support services. You are not alone in this.
Questions worth asking on the day
- Is my baby growing as expected?
- Where is my placenta? Do I need another scan to check it?
- Is there anything you would like to look at again later?
- Can I have a picture? (There is sometimes a small fee.)
- Who will explain the results if I have more questions?
Wonderfully made
Watching that tiny heart beat on the screen, seeing hands open and close, can take your breath away. The psalmist knew that wonder:
“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” (Psalm 139:14)
Every baby is fearfully and wonderfully made, including babies whose bodies will need extra care. A scan can measure a femur and count heart chambers, but it cannot measure a child's worth. That worth comes from the God who made them. Whatever your scan shows, your baby is a marvellous work of His hands.
Before your appointment, you might take a quiet moment to give the day to God, and afterwards to thank Him for whatever good you saw.
A prayer on scan day
Creator God, thank You for the wonder of this little one. As we look at our baby today, calm our nerves and open our eyes to Your handiwork. Give the sonographer skill and kindness, and whatever we learn, hold us close and help us trust You. Amen.
Frequently asked questions
When is the anatomy scan in pregnancy?
It is usually offered between about 18 and 21 weeks. Contact your midwife or clinic if you have not been given an appointment by around 18 weeks.
What does the 20-week scan check?
It looks at your baby's head, brain, face, spine, heart, organs and limbs, checks growth, and notes where the placenta is and how much fluid there is.
Does being called back after a scan mean something is wrong?
Not necessarily. Many recalls happen because the baby was lying awkwardly or the placenta needs rechecking. Ask the team to explain why you are being asked back.
This article is for general information and encouragement, not medical advice. Please talk to your doctor or midwife about your own health and your baby's.
