GROWTH SCAN AND DOPPLERS IN PREGNANCY
SCAN FOR FETAL GROWTH & WELLBEING
ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Know all about growth scans during pregnancy- their purpose, timing, & benefits. A comprehensive guide to all FAQs on fetal growth & ultrasound.
ABOUT THE GROWTH SCAN IN VERY BRIEF
- It is an important scan done in the third trimester of pregnancy, that is 28-40 weeks.
- The fetal position, size, growth, movements, wellbeing are evaluated
- Also the amniotic fluid levels (AFI) and placenta are evaluated
- In the Dopplers the circulation in the umbilical cord, the fetal major blood vessels and the blood flow from the mother to the fetus is checked
- It is important as clinical examination may not detect all problems
- Any problem picked up early can be treated early to enable you to have a healthy newborn
- What is a growth scan?
- A growth scan is a specialised ultrasonography performed during pregnancy to assess the baby’s growth, development and overall well-being. It provides very useful nformation about the baby’s size, position, and health status.
- Why is it important? It helps monitor the baby’s serial growth, identify complications that may develop, and ensure that the pregnancy is progressing as expected. It also aids in planning for delivery if any problem is detected.
- When is a growth scan performed during pregnancy? Growth scans are usually performed in the third trimester, between 28 and 40 weeks of pregnancy, as part of a third trimester ultrasound, but the exact timing and interval between scans depends on medical needs.
- How is it different from TIFFA scan?
- A growth scan focuses specifically on the baby’s growth and well-being, whereas a TIFFA scan focuses on identifying fetal structural abnormalities.
- An anomaly scan is usually done around 19-23 weeks while a growth scan is in the later stages of pregnancy that is usually done after 28 weeks
- What specific measurements are taken?
- Key measurements include:
- Biparietal Diameter (BPD): to evaluate the size of fetal head
- Head Circumference (HC): Indicates brain growth and skull development.
- Abdominal Circumference (AC): Reflects the baby’s nutritional status.
- Femur Length (FL): Measures the length of the thigh bone, indicating overall growth.
- What is the estimated fetal weight (EFW), and why is it important?
- EFW is a calculated weight of the baby based on ultrasound measurements. It helps determine if the baby is growing within the expected range for their gestational age and that the nutritional status is optimal
- Can a growth scan detect issues with the placenta?
- Yes, the scan evaluates placental position, structure, function, and blood flow using Doppler ultrasound to ensure the baby receives adequate nutrients and oxygen.
- What is Doppler ultrasound, and how is it used in a growth scan?
- Doppler ultrasound assesses blood flow in the umbilical cord, placenta, and baby’s major blood vessels including the middle cerebral artery in the brain. It also evaluates the blood flow from the mother to the fetus by checking the uterine artery blood flow. It helps detect placental insufficiency or other complications.
- Can it check the baby’s movements?
- Yes, the scan assesses fetal movements, tone breathing, and overall activity, which are important indicators of the baby’s well-being. These are part of the assessment of the fetal Biophysical Profile.
- Does the scan reveal the baby’s position?
- Yes, it confirms whether the baby is in a head-down (cephalic), breech, or transverse position, which is crucial for delivery planning.
- Can a growth scan assess amniotic fluid levels?
- Yes, the scan measures the Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI) to ensure the levels are within the normal range which is usually around 11cm-17cm. Abnormal levels can indicate potential complications.
- Oligohydramnios is when the fluid levels are low
- Polyhydramnios is when the fluid levels are high
- What is fetal growth restriction (FGR)?
- FGR or IUGR or intrauterine growth restriction occurs when the baby’s growth is significantly below the expected rate for its gestational age. It can be due to placental issues or maternal health conditions. The fetal abdominal circumference is the first to drop while the head circumference is maintained.
- What is macrosomia, and why is it a concern?
- Macrosomia refers to a baby being larger than average (weighing over 4 kg) at birth. The indicator for this in the growth scan is the fetal abdominal circumference is very large, above the 95th centile. It can increase the risk of complications during delivery, such as shoulder dystocia. Also, it may be an indicator of maternal diabetes which needs to be evaluated.
- Are growth scans necessary for all pregnancies?
- Not absolutely necessarily. But highly recommended especially for high-risk pregnancies, including those with:
- Gestational diabetes
- Hypertension or preeclampsia
- Previous pregnancy complications
- Suspected fetal growth issues
- Is it better to have a growth scan even if there is no high risk factor?
Yes it is always recommended as clinical examination may not always pick up any growth or fluid abnormalities. Also, if these problems are detected early, they can be treated early to achieve an optimal outcome of a healthy newborn baby
- Are there risks associated with a growth scan?
- No, growth scans are safe and non-invasive. They use sound waves, which do not harm the mother or baby. Radiation is not used
- How should I prepare for a growth scan?
- No special preparation is needed. However having a meal or snacks before the scan is better. One need not drink too much water. The bladder need not be overfull. .
- Can the scan provide 3D or 4D images?
- Yes 3D images can be obtained of the fetal face depending on the position of the fetus. You have to ask in advance for the 3D scan
- How is the growth scan done?
- During the scan, a gel is applied to the abdomen, and a transducer is used to capture images. The process takes 20-30 minutes and is generally comfortable and pain free.
- Can parents see their baby during the growth scan?
- Yes, parents can view the baby’s images on the ultrasound monitor after completion of the evaluation which is often an exciting and memorable experience. However viewing the entire scan, photography, and videography are not permitted as per the PNDT Act and guidelines.
- What happens if abnormalities are detected during the scan?
- If abnormalities are found, additional tests like further scans, Doppler studies, check scans or even more frequent consultations may be recommended.
- Can growth scans predict the exact date of delivery?
- Growth scans can provide an estimate of the baby’s size and maturity but are not designed to predict the exact delivery date. The estimated date of delivery is determined by the menstrual dates or by the early pregnancy scan that is done around 6-8 weeks of pregnancy.
- How accurate are growth scans in estimating fetal weight?
- While growth scans provide a reliable estimate, there is a margin of error of 10-15% for fetal weight.
- Can the scan help decide the mode of delivery?
- Yes, the results may influence decisions about vaginal delivery versus cesarean section, especially if the baby is too small or large for gestational age and depending on the fetal position.
- What should parents do after the scan?
- Discuss the results with your doctor to understand your baby’s growth pattern and determine if further monitoring or special care like bedrest are required.
- How many growth scans are typically performed?
- The number depends on individual pregnancy needs. High-risk pregnancies may require multiple scans, while low-risk pregnancies may only need one or two scans.
- Are there any limitations of growth scans?
- Yes, factors like maternal obesity, fetal position, or low amniotic fluid can sometimes affect the accuracy of measurements.
- Can growth scans detect chromosomal and genetic disorders?
- Growth scans do not diagnose chromosomal and genetic disorders but may at times detect markers that warrant further testing, such as amniocentesis or genetic counselling.
29. What Documents Are Required for an Early Pregnancy Scan?
- Doctor’s prescription slip
- Previous scan reports (if available)
- A copy of Government ID proof (e.g., Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, etc.) as per PNDT guidelines
- What is the main takeaway about the growth scan?
- Growth scans are essential or highly recommended tools for monitoring your baby’s health and ensuring a safe pregnancy journey. They provide reassurance and help guide appropriate medical care when needed.
