NHS Antenatal Scans: What They Reveal About Your Baby

Antenatal care is a cornerstone of pregnancy, and NHS antenatal scans provide invaluable insights into your baby’s development. These routine procedures ensure both you and your baby are on track for a healthy pregnancy. In this guide, we’ll explore what antenatal scans involve, their role in your care, and what you can expect during these appointments.

What Are Antenatal Scans?

Antenatal scans are ultrasound exams performed during pregnancy to monitor your baby’s health and development. Using high-frequency sound waves, these scans create images of your baby in the womb. They are safe, painless, and a standard part of NHS antenatal care. For most pregnancies, the NHS provides at least two routine scans: the dating scan and the anomaly scan.

Dating Scan: Confirming Pregnancy and Due Date

The dating scan typically occurs between 8 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. It helps to:

Confirm the pregnancy.

Calculate your baby’s gestational age and estimated due date.

Check for multiple pregnancies (e.g., twins or triplets).

Detect early abnormalities, such as ectopic pregnancies.

Anomaly Scan: A Detailed Look at Development

The anomaly scan is offered between 18 and 21 weeks. This more detailed examination assesses:

The baby’s anatomy, including major organs.

The position of the placenta.

Any structural abnormalities or potential health issues.

The anomaly scan provides parents with reassurance and helps healthcare providers prepare for any required interventions or follow-up care.

Why Are Antenatal Scans Important?

Antenatal scans are a critical component of prenatal care. They offer several benefits:

Early Detection of Complications: Scans can identify conditions such as low-lying placenta, slow growth, or congenital abnormalities.

Reassurance for Parents: Seeing your baby on the screen provides emotional comfort and helps you bond.

Preparation for Birth: If complications are detected, scans allow your healthcare team to plan interventions or specialised care.

According to the NHS, regular antenatal checkups, including scans, significantly improve outcomes for both mother and baby. These appointments are also an opportunity to discuss questions or concerns with your midwife or doctor.

Additional Scans: When More Monitoring Is Needed

For some pregnancies, additional scans may be required. These are often recommended if:

There are concerns about the baby’s growth.

You have a history of complications, such as preterm birth.

You develop conditions like gestational diabetes or high blood pressure.

The pregnancy involves multiples, such as twins or triplets.

Your antenatal clinic will guide you on any extra scans or tests needed, ensuring comprehensive care.

What to Expect During an Antenatal Scan

Antenatal scans are performed in NHS clinics or hospitals by a sonographer. Here’s what to expect:

Preparation: For early scans, you may be asked to drink water beforehand. A full bladder helps create clearer images.

Procedure: The sonographer applies a gel to your abdomen and moves a handheld device (transducer) over your skin. This device sends sound waves that produce an image of your baby on the screen.

Duration: Scans typically last 15–30 minutes, depending on the type of scan.

Results: The sonographer explains findings during the scan. If further tests or appointments are necessary, you’ll be informed immediately.

Remember, scans are an opportunity to learn about your baby’s health and progress. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or express concerns.

Understanding Antenatal Scan Results

Your scan results will be reviewed by your healthcare team. While most pregnancies progress normally, some findings may require further investigation. Common conditions detected include:

Placenta Previa: A low-lying placenta may require monitoring to ensure safe delivery.

Foetal Growth Restriction (FGR): If the baby isn’t growing as expected, additional scans and interventions may be recommended.

Congenital Conditions: Scans can detect certain anomalies early, allowing time for medical planning and support.

Your midwife or doctor will explain your results in detail and discuss next steps if any concerns arise.

Dispelling Myths About Antenatal Scans

Antenatal scans are surrounded by myths and misconceptions. Let’s clarify a few:

Myth: Drinking cold water or eating sweets makes the baby move more during the scan.

Fact: There’s no scientific evidence to support this. Baby movements during scans are natural and not significantly affected by food or drink.

Myth: All abnormalities can be detected through scans.

Fact: While scans are highly effective, not all conditions are visible. Some may require additional tests.

The NHS emphasises that while scans are highly informative, they are one part of a broader antenatal care plan.

Making the Most of Your Antenatal Scans

To maximise the benefits of your antenatal scans:

Ask Questions: Prepare a list of questions for your sonographer or midwife. This ensures you leave the appointment feeling informed.

Involve Your Partner: Many clinics allow partners to attend scans, creating a shared bonding experience.

Follow Up Promptly: If further scans or tests are recommended, prioritise these appointments for your baby’s health.

The Emotional Impact of Antenatal Scans

Seeing your baby on the screen for the first time is an emotional milestone. For many parents, it makes the pregnancy feel more real and strengthens the connection with their baby. However, if scans reveal unexpected findings, it’s natural to feel worried. The NHS provides antenatal support services, including counselling, to help you navigate these emotions.

When to Seek Further Advice

While most antenatal scans proceed without complications, always contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

Sudden changes in baby movements.

Unexplained bleeding or severe pain.

Questions or concerns about your scan results.

The NHS antenatal team is there to provide guidance and support every step of the way.

Conclusion

Antenatal scans are a cornerstone of pregnancy care, offering reassurance and vital health insights. Through routine and additional scans, the NHS ensures that you and your baby receive the best possible care. Embrace these appointments as an opportunity to bond with your baby, address any concerns, and prepare for a healthy delivery.

Sources:

NHS. Antenatal care overview

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Antenatal care guidance

Tommy’s. Pregnancy scans explained

A pregnant woman undergoing an antenatal scan with her partner.