Fetal Scans in Pregnancy — Types, Timing and What to Expect
- Dr Panicos Shangaris
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Pregnancy is an exciting and emotional journey, and fetal scans are one of the most important tools for monitoring your baby’s development. These ultrasound scans help confirm key milestones, detect concerns early and provide reassurance throughout pregnancy.
This guide explains the different scans offered during pregnancy, what they look for and why they are important.
What Are Fetal Scans?
Fetal scans are ultrasound examinations that use high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of your baby inside the womb. They help your doctor:
Monitor fetal growth
Check early development
Assess organ structure
Confirm the baby’s position
Check the placenta and amniotic fluid
Ultrasound is non-invasive and carries minimal risk. It is a routine and essential part of prenatal care.
Why Fetal Scans Are Important
Fetal scans allow early detection of potential issues and guide clinical decision-making. They are used to:
Confirm early pregnancy viability
Assess the risk of chromosomal conditions
Detect structural abnormalities
Monitor babies who require extra surveillance
Support delivery planning when needed
For expectant parents, fetal scans provide reassurance and a clearer understanding of how the pregnancy is progressing.
The Main Pregnancy Scans
First Trimester Scan (11 to 13+6 weeks)
This early scan:
Confirms pregnancy dating
Checks the heartbeat
Assesses early development
Measures nuchal translucency
Helps evaluate the risk of chromosomal conditions
Helps assess the risk of developing high blood pressure in pregnancy
This is one of the key scans in early pregnancy.
Anomaly Scan (Around 20 Weeks)
The 20-week scan is a detailed assessment of your baby’s anatomy.
It examines:
Brain and spine
Heart
Kidneys and bladder
Stomach and abdominal wall
Limbs and bones
Facial structures
Placental position
It helps detect structural abnormalities and ensures organs are developing as expected.
Growth Scans (If Needed Later in Pregnancy)
Growth scans may be recommended in:
High-risk pregnancies
Concerns about fetal growth
Maternal health conditions
Previous pregnancy complications
They help assess:
Growth rate
Estimated fetal weight
Amniotic fluid volume
Placental function
Blood flow in the umbilical cord (Doppler when needed)
These scans help guide monitoring and delivery planning.
Advanced Imaging Options
3D and 4D Ultrasound
These scans provide more lifelike views of the baby’s face and movements. They can
improve bonding and sometimes help clinicians when standard views are unclear.
Fetal MRI
MRI is used selectively to assess complex congenital conditions, especially involving the brain or other organs. It offers detailed anatomical information without radiation.
Limitations of Fetal Scans
While highly informative, fetal scans have limitations:
Not all abnormalities can be seen
Some findings may require further testing
False positives and negatives can occur
Ultrasound overuse is sometimes discussed, but medical scans carry minimal risk
Your clinician will explain any findings and next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are fetal scans?
Fetal scans are ultrasound examinations used to monitor your baby’s development, check organ structure and identify potential concerns during pregnancy.
When are the main pregnancy scans?
Key scans include the first trimester scan at 11 to 13+6 weeks, the 20-week anomaly scan and additional third-trimester growth scans when needed.
What does the 12-week scan check?
It confirms pregnancy dating, checks early development and measures nuchal translucency to assess chromosomal risk.
What does the 20-week scan check?
It examines the baby’s organs and skeletal structures, including the brain, heart, kidneys, spine and limbs.
Are 3D and 4D scans necessary?
They are optional. Standard ultrasound is medically sufficient, but 3D/4D scans can offer additional detail.
Is ultrasound safe?
Yes. Ultrasound is non-invasive and considered safe when used appropriately in clinical settings.
