What to expect: anatomy scan
What to expect: your 20(ish) week anatomy scan.
Yay for making it halfway (give or take) through your pregnancy and that much closer to meeting baby! The 20 week anatomy scan is a big one and one that will give a larger, more in depth look at baby than you may have gotten up to this point.
This appointment happens usually sometime between 18-22 weeks and does take a chunk of time- for me personally, it took about an hour from start to finish, so make sure you are prepared for a bit longer of an appointment (i.e. you might want to eat ahead of time, which could also help baby wiggle for the ultrasound so you can see them better).
At this appointment, the ultrasound tech will go through a TON of stuff to check on baby’s growth and development. Every tech I’ve gotten with my three pregnancies that made it to this point were amazing at talking through what they were looking at as they moved through their list.
They will check baby’s brain, heart, spinal cord, their placenta and its position, blood flow, baby’s bones, length, lungs and so much more. It is really cool to see it all so in depth in these appointments. They will then share the information with the doctor and then the doctor will come in and chat with you about the findings and specifics.
This appointment always made me nervous as a miscarriage mama but each time the tech would finish it and let me know that the initial look looked normal and that the doctor would be in to talk more in depth and answer any questions I had.
Sometimes, depending on the place, you might even get a 3D look at baby to really get to see their little features. My third pregnancy was the only one I got to do this with and it was so neat- from that point we could already tell she was going to be our older daughter’s twin.
#lemon8partner #pregnancydiaries #pregnancyexperience #pregnant #anatomyscan
Let's talk more about that amazing 18-22 week window for your anatomy scan, often called the 'Level 2' ultrasound! For many of us, this is the first really comprehensive look at our little one, and it can bring up a mix of excitement and nerves. I remember feeling so anxious but also incredibly eager to see my baby's profile and ensure everything was developing just right. It's truly a milestone appointment! You might be wondering, "What exactly makes it a 'Level 2' scan?" Essentially, it's a highly detailed ultrasound performed by a specially trained sonographer to meticulously examine your baby's anatomy. Unlike earlier, quicker scans, this one zooms in on every major organ and system. They're not just confirming a heartbeat; they're checking the four chambers of the heart, the brain's hemispheres, the spine's alignment, kidney function, stomach bubble, and even the number of vessels in the umbilical cord. They'll measure everything from head circumference to femur length, creating a robust "baby profile" to track growth and ensure all measurements fall within typical ranges. This detailed assessment helps identify any potential concerns early on. One common question is, "How long does the anatomy scan take?" As mentioned, it's not a quick in-and-out appointment. Mine typically took around an hour, sometimes a bit longer if baby was being shy or in an awkward position. The sonographer needs ample time to get all the necessary views, which can sometimes mean gentle nudges on your belly or a short walk to encourage movement. Don't be surprised if they ask you to empty your bladder and then partially fill it again – it helps with different views! Beyond the medical checks, many parents are excited about the possibility of finding out the gender. At 20 weeks, the accuracy for gender determination is usually very high, provided baby cooperates! It's incredible to see the little nubs or lines that indicate whether you're having a boy or a girl. And for some, if your facility offers it and baby is in a good position, you might even get a glimpse of a 3D scan of your baby's face! That 3D image can be so powerful, allowing you to see their features with surprising clarity – a real "wow" moment. My third pregnancy was the only one where I got a clear 3D view, and it was unforgettable, seeing how much she already resembled her sister. To make the most of your appointment, I'd suggest a few things based on my own experience. First, try to eat something light before you go; a little sugar can sometimes get baby wiggling for better views (as my tech always suggested!). Stay hydrated too. Wear comfortable clothing, as you'll likely be lying down for a while. And don't hesitate to ask questions! Write them down beforehand if you're prone to forgetting in the moment. It’s your opportunity to understand what they are checking and get reassurance. Remember, this scan is a celebration of your baby's growth and a vital check-up, so try to embrace the experience!
See more comments