Pregnancy Scan List: Important Scans During Each Trimester

Pregnancy is crucial for all women and is filled with milestones and emotions. 

Did you know there are different types of ultrasound scans in pregnancy? They are taken depending on the stage of the pregnancy and for various reasons such as calculating the chances of pregnancy being affected with Down's syndrome and other risks. 

In this blog, we will discuss all the important pregnancy scans during each trimester and their significance.

Importance of Pregnancy Scans

Pregnancy scans, also known as prenatal ultrasounds, are important in monitoring health and development and ensuring the mother's well-being. Here is why these pregnancy scans are important-

• An ultrasound helps confirm pregnancy and determine its location (inside the uterus) to rule out ectopic pregnancies.
• The test monitors the fetal heartbeat; scans confirm a healthy, progressing pregnancy.
• These pregnancy scans help to determine the due date by measuring the baby's crown-to-rump length in early pregnancy.
• Regular scans measure the baby’s size, weight, and growth pattern to detect abnormalities.
• Pregnancy scans help to identify the congenital disabilities in a baby, such as neural tube defects, cleft palate, or chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome.
• Scans check the position and function of the placenta to rule out issues like placenta previa or placental abruption.
• Scans are essential for managing twin or multiple pregnancies, ensuring each baby’s growth and well-being.
• They help assess if the babies share a placenta or amniotic sac, which requires careful monitoring.
• In the third trimester, scans determine the baby’s position (head-down, breech, or transverse), helping plan for labor and delivery.

Important Pregnancy Scan List Month-Wise

First Trimester Scans (0-13 Weeks)

Here are some essential scans for the first trimester. Here are the crucial scans during this stage:

• Dating Scan

The dating scan is performed between 6 and 9 weeks of pregnancy. It confirms the pregnancy, calculates the due date, and identifies the number of fetuses.

• An early scan confirms a pregnancy and determines an estimated due date. This test detects the fetal heart rate. 
• It checks the fetal heartbeat and ensures the pregnancy develops inside the uterus.

• Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan

The scan is done during 11-14 weeks of pregnancy. It measures the fluid at the back of the baby's neck to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Edwards syndrome, Down syndrome, and Patau syndrome. The test is combined with a blood test for a more accurate screening. 

This measures the length of the baby. The test diagnoses whether more than one baby is present and assesses whether the placenta is sharing, which will need close monitoring during pregnancy.

Second Trimester Scans (14-26 Weeks)

Many women consider the second trimester the most comfortable. This period includes essential scans to ensure the baby's healthy development.

• Anomaly Scan (Level 2 Ultrasound) (18-22 weeks)

This pregnancy scan examines the baby's organs, heart, brain, spine, and limbs to detect structural abnormalities. It also helps evaluate the placenta's position and amniotic fluid levels.

• Growth Scan (Around 24 weeks of pregnancy)

This scan monitors the baby's growth, checks for fetal weight, and ensures the baby develops at the right pace. It also evaluates blood flow in the umbilical cord.

• Cervical Length Scan (16-24 weeks).

This scan assesses the length of the cervix to predict the risk of preterm labor. It is important for women with a history of preterm birth.

Third Trimester Scans (27-40 Weeks)

The third trimester focuses on monitoring the baby’s growth, position, and overall well-being as the due date approaches. Here are the key scans:

• 7th Month Pregnancy Scan ( 28-32 weeks)

It is also called a Growth Scan or Biophysical Profile (BPP); this scan evaluates-

• Baby’s growth parameters (head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length).
• Amniotic fluid levels.
• Baby’s movements, breathing, and muscle tone.
• Placental health and blood flow.

• Color Doppler Scan (28-34 weeks)

This scan measures blood flow in the umbilical cord, placenta, and baby’s brain. It helps to detect fetal distress or growth restrictions. 

Pregnancy Scan list with Timings

Scan Type	Purpose	Timing
Dating Scan	Confirms pregnancy and estimates gestational age.	6–9 weeks
Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan	Screens for chromosomal abnormalities.	11–14 weeks
Anomaly Scan (Level II)	Detects structural and developmental abnormalities.	18–22 weeks
Growth Scan	Monitors the baby’s growth and amniotic fluid levels.	28–32 weeks
Doppler Scan	Evaluates blood flow between the placenta and the baby.	After 28 weeks

3D and 4D Ultrasound Scans for Pregnancy

Advancements in ultrasound technology have made it possible to view detailed and realistic images of the unborn baby through 3D and 4D ultrasounds. DD Ultrasound produces three-dimensional static pictures of the fetus, allowing you to view the baby's face, hands, feet, and body. 4D Ultrasound builds on 3D technology by capturing real-time, live video of the baby's movements. It shows the baby's actions, such as yawning, stretching, and smiling.

3D and 4D scans are usually recommended between 26 and 32 weeks of pregnancy. Earlier scans may not show clear images as the baby has less fat, while later scans may have reduced clarity due to crowding in the uterus.

How to Prepare for a Pregnancy Scan?

Here are some practical tips to prepare for your scans:

• Drink Water- A full bladder provides better visibility for early pregnancy scans.
• Wear Comfortable Clothes- Choose loose-fitting clothes for easy access to your abdomen.
• Bring Your Medical Records- Previous scan reports help the doctor assess your pregnancy progression.

If you have any doubts, don't hesitate to clarify with your Gynecologist. 

Takeaways

Pregnancy scans are crucial to prenatal care and help you provide insights into your baby's health and development. Each scan ensures a healthy pregnancy, from the early dating to the critical 7th-month growth scan. However, it is important to consult your doctor about these scans. It is also very important to take these scans promptly. Consult your doctor to understand which scans are necessary according to your needs.

FAQ’s

1. Are pregnancy ultrasounds safe?

Yes, pregnancy ultrasounds are safe. They are a standard part of prenatal care.

2. What if abnormalities are detected?

If an issue is identified, your doctor will recommend further tests or interventions to address the concern.

3. How many weeks pregnant do you get a scan?

During pregnancy, you can expect to have at least two ultrasound scans, one around 12 weeks and one around 20 weeks. However, you may have more scans depending on your health and the pregnancy. 

4. How early can a scan detect pregnancy?

An ultrasound scan can detect a healthy pregnancy as early as 17 days after ovulation or about three days after a missed period. However, the timing of conception can vary, so it's best to wait a week after a missed period to confirm a pregnancy.