Pregnancy ultrasound scans play an important role in monitoring the baby’s growth, development, and overall wellbeing throughout the pregnancy journey. Many expecting parents want to understand when is anomaly scan done because it is one of the most detailed scans performed during pregnancy. Knowing the purpose and timing of each ultrasound can help parents prepare better and understand how doctors track the baby’s progress at different stages.

Why Pregnancy Ultrasound Scans Are Important

Ultrasound scans use sound waves to create images of the baby inside the uterus. These scans help doctors check the baby’s heartbeat, growth, position, organs, placenta, and fluid levels. They also help monitor the mother’s health and identify situations where additional care may be needed.

The number of scans required during pregnancy can vary from one person to another. Some mothers may need only routine scans, while others may require additional monitoring due to medical conditions, previous pregnancy history, multiple pregnancies, or specific findings.

A proper ultrasound timeline helps ensure that important checks are performed during the right pregnancy weeks.

First Trimester Ultrasound Scans (Weeks 1 to 13)

The first trimester is the earliest stage of pregnancy and is important for confirming pregnancy development.

Early Pregnancy Confirmation Scan

After a positive pregnancy test, an early ultrasound may be recommended around 6 to 8 weeks. This scan is often called a viability scan and helps confirm:

• Pregnancy location inside the uterus
• Baby’s heartbeat
• Gestational age
• Number of babies

This scan is especially useful when there is uncertainty about pregnancy dates, bleeding, abdominal pain, or previous pregnancy complications.

Dating Scan

A dating scan helps estimate the exact stage of pregnancy. The specialist measures the baby’s size to calculate gestational age and expected delivery date.

Accurate dating is important because many upcoming pregnancy tests and scans are scheduled according to specific weeks. If the pregnancy dates are unclear, an ultrasound provides a more reliable estimate.

NT Scan

The nuchal translucency (NT) scan is one of the important first-trimester screening scans. It is generally performed between 11 weeks and 13 weeks 6 days of pregnancy.

During this scan, the specialist measures the fluid-filled space behind the baby’s neck. It also checks early development, heartbeat, nasal bone, and other markers.

The NT scan helps assess the likelihood of certain chromosomal conditions. However, it is a screening test and does not confirm a diagnosis. Additional tests may be suggested if the results indicate increased risk.

Second Trimester Ultrasound Scans (Weeks 14 to 27)

The second trimester is when the baby’s organs become more developed, allowing doctors to perform more detailed assessments.

Anomaly Scan

One of the most important pregnancy scans is the anomaly scan, also known as the level 2 or detailed anatomy scan.

Parents often ask when is anomaly scan done because the timing is important for accurate assessment. The anomaly scan is usually performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy.

This scan provides a detailed examination of the baby’s body structures, including:

• Brain and skull development
• Spine
• Heart structure
• Face and facial features
• Stomach and kidneys
• Arms and legs
• Placenta position
• Amniotic fluid levels

The purpose of the scan is to assess whether the baby’s organs and structures are developing as expected. Although it can detect many structural concerns, no ultrasound can identify every possible condition.

Parents planning an Anomaly Scan in Chandigarh should schedule the scan within the recommended pregnancy window. The timing allows the specialist to obtain clearer views of the baby’s anatomy.

Fetal Echocardiography

In some pregnancies, a detailed heart scan called fetal echocardiography may be recommended. This scan provides a closer look at the baby’s heart structure and function.

It may be advised if there is a family history of heart conditions, abnormal findings in earlier scans, diabetes during pregnancy, or other risk factors.

Third Trimester Ultrasound Scans (Weeks 28 to Delivery)

The third trimester focuses on monitoring the baby’s growth, wellbeing, and preparation for delivery.

Growth Scan

A growth scan may be recommended to check whether the baby is growing according to the expected pattern. It measures:

• Baby’s estimated weight
• Head and abdominal measurements
• Amniotic fluid levels
• Placenta position
• Overall growth pattern

Growth scans are particularly useful when there are concerns about the baby being smaller or larger than expected.

Doppler Scan

A Doppler ultrasound evaluates blood flow between the mother, placenta, and baby. It helps doctors understand whether the baby is receiving adequate oxygen and nutrients.

Doppler scans may be advised in cases of:

• High blood pressure
• Reduced fetal movements
• Growth concerns
• Twin pregnancy
• High-risk pregnancy conditions

Final Pregnancy Scan

Towards the end of pregnancy, a final ultrasound may be suggested to check:

• Baby’s position
• Placenta location
• Fluid levels
• Estimated baby weight
• Overall wellbeing

This information helps doctors plan delivery safely, especially if there are concerns regarding baby position or growth.

Preparing for Pregnancy Ultrasound Scans

Preparation depends on the type and stage of pregnancy scan. Some early scans may require a full bladder for better visibility, while later scans usually have different requirements.

Before your appointment:

• Carry previous scan reports
• Bring blood test results
• Keep your pregnancy records updated
• Follow the instructions provided before the scan

If you are booking an Anomaly Scan in Chandigarh, ask about the recommended pregnancy week, preparation requirements, and reporting process before your appointment.

Factors That May Change the Ultrasound Schedule

Not every pregnancy follows the same scan timeline. Additional ultrasounds may be recommended if:

• The mother has diabetes or high blood pressure
• There is bleeding or pain
• Baby growth needs monitoring
• Previous scans show concerns
• There is a multiple pregnancy
• The doctor needs more information

Extra scans do not always mean there is a problem. Often, they are suggested simply to monitor development more closely.

FAQs

1. When is anomaly scan done during pregnancy?

The anomaly scan is usually performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. This period allows detailed examination of the baby’s organs and structures.

2. Is an ultrasound scan safe during pregnancy?

Yes, ultrasound is commonly used during pregnancy and does not use radiation. It should be performed by trained professionals for medical purposes.

3. How many ultrasound scans are needed during pregnancy?

The number of scans depends on individual pregnancy needs. Routine scans commonly include early pregnancy scan, NT scan, anomaly scan, and growth monitoring scans if required.

4. Can an anomaly scan detect all problems?

No. An anomaly scan can identify many structural concerns, but some conditions may not be visible during ultrasound. Further tests may sometimes be required.

Conclusion

Pregnancy ultrasound scans provide valuable information about the baby’s growth and development at every stage. From early pregnancy confirmation to the detailed anomaly scan and third-trimester growth monitoring, each scan has a specific purpose.

Understanding when is anomaly scan done helps parents plan this important examination at the right time. For families looking for an Anomaly Scan in Chandigarh, timely scanning and proper medical guidance can make pregnancy monitoring more reassuring and informed.