Do Not Miss Anomaly Scan in Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a crucial journey that requires regular monitoring to ensure the healthy growth of the baby. Among all the pregnancy scans, one scan that doctors strongly recommend is the Anomaly Scan. Most importantly, you should not miss the Anomaly Scan in pregnancy because it provides a detailed evaluation of your baby’s organs and structural development.
Many expecting mothers feel confused about different scan names. However, the Anomaly Scan is also called:
TIFFA Scan (Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies)
Level 2 Scan
Fetal Anatomy Scan
Targeted Fetal Scan
Second Trimester Detailed Scan
At Nisarga Diagnostics, we perform advanced and accurate Anomaly Scan services using high-resolution ultrasound technology to ensure safe and reliable pregnancy care.
Watch our video on : Importance of Anomaly scan
What Is an Anomaly Scan in Pregnancy?
An Anomaly Scan is a detailed ultrasound performed during the second trimester to examine the baby’s organs, body structure, and overall development inside the womb. Unlike routine pregnancy scans, this scan focuses specifically on detecting structural abnormalities and confirming normal fetal growth.
In simple terms, this scan checks the baby from head to toe in a systematic and detailed manner. Therefore, gynecologists consider the Anomaly Scan as one of the most important milestone scans during pregnancy.
Why You Should Not Miss Anomaly Scan in Pregnancy?
Firstly, the Anomaly Scan helps doctors detect structural abnormalities at the right time. Early detection allows better medical planning and improved pregnancy care.
Secondly, this scan provides a detailed assessment of all major fetal organs. Doctors carefully evaluate the brain, heart, spine, kidneys, limbs, and abdomen during the scan.
In addition, the Anomaly Scan confirms whether the baby is growing according to the gestational age. This helps in identifying growth-related concerns early.
Moreover, the scan also checks the placenta position, amniotic fluid levels, and umbilical cord condition. These factors play a major role in maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
Most importantly, timely Anomaly Scan gives reassurance and peace of mind to parents about their baby’s development.
When Should the Anomaly Scan Be Done?
Doctors recommend the Anomaly Scan between 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy. This is the ideal time because the baby’s organs are well developed and clearly visible on ultrasound.
Before 18 weeks, the organs may not be fully developed for detailed evaluation. On the other hand, delaying the scan beyond 22 weeks may reduce the accuracy of structural assessment.
Therefore, expecting mothers should schedule the Anomaly Scan within this recommended time window for the best diagnostic results.
At Nisarga Diagnostics, we guide patients to book their scan at the right gestational period to ensure accurate fetal evaluation.
What Does the Anomaly Scan Check?
The Anomaly Scan (TIFFA / Level 2 Scan) includes a comprehensive head-to-toe examination of the baby.
Baby’s Brain and Head
Firstly, the radiologist checks the brain structure and skull development to rule out neural abnormalities.
Baby’s Face and Lips
Next, the scan evaluates facial structures to detect visible abnormalities such as cleft lip.
Baby’s Heart (Fetal Cardiac Screening)
In addition, the doctor carefully examines the baby’s heart chambers, valves, and blood flow patterns.
Baby’s Spine
The spine is assessed to identify neural tube defects and ensure proper alignment.
Baby’s Abdomen and Internal Organs
Furthermore, organs like the stomach, liver, kidneys, and bladder are examined for normal development.
Baby’s Limbs and Bones
Finally, the scan measures arms, legs, and bones to confirm proper skeletal growth.
Is the Anomaly Scan Safe for Mother and Baby?
Yes, the Anomaly Scan is completely safe for both mother and baby. It uses ultrasound sound waves and does not involve any radiation.
Moreover, the procedure is non-invasive and painless. Doctors perform the scan externally using an ultrasound probe placed on the abdomen.
At Nisarga Diagnostics, we use advanced ultrasound systems and follow strict medical safety protocols. Therefore, patients can undergo the Anomaly Scan with complete confidence and comfort.
How Is the Anomaly Scan Performed?
Firstly, the pregnant woman lies comfortably on the examination bed. Then, the radiologist applies a medical gel on the abdomen to improve image clarity.
Next, the doctor actively performs the scan using an ultrasound probe on the belly. Real-time images of the baby appear on the monitor during the procedure.
The radiologist carefully observes the baby’s movements, organ structures, and growth measurements. If the baby’s position is not ideal, the doctor may ask the mother to change position or walk briefly.
Overall, the procedure is smooth, safe, and usually takes around 25 to 40 minutes.
What Happens If You Miss the Anomaly Scan?
Missing the Anomaly Scan can delay the detection of structural abnormalities in the baby. As a result, doctors may not get enough time for early medical planning.
Furthermore, important fetal organ assessments may be skipped if the scan is not done within the recommended time. This may affect pregnancy monitoring and clinical decision-making.
Therefore, gynecologists strongly advise that expecting mothers should not miss the Anomaly Scan during the second trimester.
How to Prepare for an Anomaly Scan?
Preparation for the Anomaly Scan is simple and stress-free.
Firstly, carry all previous scan reports and medical records.
Secondly, wear comfortable and loose clothing for easy scanning.
In addition, follow any hydration instructions given by the diagnostic center.
Finally, stay relaxed during the scan for better imaging results.
Our expert team at Nisarga Diagnostics ensures a comfortable and patient-friendly scanning experience for every expecting mother.
Conclusion
Do not miss the Anomaly Scan in pregnancy, as it is one of the most important scans for assessing your baby’s development and detecting structural abnormalities at the right time. Also known as TIFFA Scan, Level 2 Scan, or Fetal Anatomy Scan, this detailed ultrasound plays a vital role in ensuring a safe and healthy pregnancy.
Founder of Nisarga Diagnostics, is a renowned fetal ultrasound specialist with over 20 years of expertise. An alumnus of Government Medical Colleges in Mysore and Bangalore, he also holds a D.N.B. from the National Board of Examinations, Delhi, and certification from the Fetal Medicine Foundation, London. A former Professor and HOD, he has trained countless PG students and junior radiologists, shaping the future of fetal imaging in India.