What Are the Benefits of Antenatal Scans During Pregnancy?
Antenatal scans are a vital part of the antenatal care you will receive while pregnant. A high frequency sound wave is used to make a detailed picture or image of the inside of your body. These ultrasound scans in pregnancy are non-invasive and safe, and will provide information on the health of you and your baby.
1. Accurate Determination of Gestational Age and Due Date
A dating scan around 8 to 14 weeks into the pregnancy helps establish the gestational age of the fetus. It is based on the measurement of the crown-rump length. This scan provides a more accurate due date and growth assessment of the baby.
The results are crucial for monitoring the baby’s development and planning subsequent prenatal care. Accurate dating also prevents unnecessary early interventions or delayed delivery planning. A timely dating scan lays the groundwork for consistent monitoring throughout pregnancy.
2. Monitoring Baby’s Growth and Development
Fetal growth is monitored through antenatal scans to ensure that the baby is growing at a healthy rate. The scans measure the size of the fetus and the development of its organs.
This information can help detect growth restrictions early on and take action if necessary. It also helps in monitoring the progress of any treatment or nutrition plan that has been recommended.
Regular growth tracking can provide reassurance and help plan for future scans or treatments.
3. Identifying Multiple Pregnancies
Antenatal scans can reveal multiple pregnancies, such as twins or triplets. Early detection of multiple fetuses allows for specialized care and monitoring to manage the unique challenges and risks associated with multiple pregnancies.
This proactive approach can lead to better outcomes for both the mother and the babies. It also facilitates planning the delivery method and timing to minimize complications.
4. Assessing Placental Position and Amniotic Fluid Levels
Scans help find the placenta’s position and detect issues like placenta previa, where it covers the cervix. Finding this early helps plan a safe delivery.
The amount of amniotic fluid around the baby is also measured, as both excess and low levels can indicate potential problems that might require medical attention.
Monitoring amniotic fluid volume helps in assessing the baby’s environment and can signal risks such as intrauterine growth restriction or preterm labor. Placental health and fluid levels are important indicators of fetal well-being throughout pregnancy.
5. Evaluating Blood Flow and Umbilical Cord Health
A Doppler ultrasound is a special scan that checks how well blood is flowing in the baby’s body and through the umbilical cord. This test checks that the baby is getting enough oxygen and nutrients, and it is important for their healthy growth and development.
By monitoring the blood flow, any issues with the baby’s circulation can be identified and addressed.
6. Determining Baby’s Position and Planning for Delivery
Routine antenatal scans during pregnancy determine the position of the baby inside the uterus. Predicting the baby’s presentation, whether head-down or breech, facilitates the appropriate mode of delivery planning. If the baby is not in the right position for delivery, strategies or interventions to help reposition the baby can be discussed.
Early detection of fetal position helps prevent labor problems and prepares for childbirth. It also helps the medical team prepare for interventions like external cephalic version or planning a scheduled C-section if needed.
- Providing Reassurance and Emotional Connection
In addition to medical evaluations, antenatal scans give parents the chance to see images of your baby. This visual connection helps with emotional bonding and reassures parents about the baby’s health.
Witnessing the baby’s movements and features can be an emotional and heartwarming experience, deepening the emotional connection to the unborn child.
Scans can also help to alleviate anxiety and increase parental confidence throughout pregnancy. Many families cherish scan images as a special memory of their baby’s early journey.
Conclusion
Antenatal scans are an essential part of a healthy, monitored pregnancy. From confirming your baby’s due date to checking growth, position, and overall health, these scans provide reassurance and valuable information at every stage.
They also deepen the emotional bond between parents and their unborn child and help healthcare providers offer timely, personalized care.
At Shai Raksha Fertility Centre, we combine state-of-the-art scanning technology with compassionate care to support you every step of the way. Our team of experts is committed to giving you and your baby the safest and most reassuring experience possible. Book your antenatal scan with Shai Raksha Fertility centre today
FAQs
1: Are antenatal scans safe for me and my baby?
Yes, antenatal scans are very safe for you and your baby. They use high frequency sound waves to see the baby’s growth and development and are non-invasive.
2: How many scans will I need during pregnancy?
There are at least five important scans in every pregnancy. They include a dating scan, an NT scan, an anomaly scan, a growth scan with Doppler and a term scan. Your doctor will advise if you need any additional scans as part of your individual care.
3: Can antenatal scans detect all birth defects?
An anomaly scan can check for a range of structural abnormalities. However, not all birth defects can be seen on an ultrasound scan. If your doctor thinks it is necessary, you may be offered other tests.