Why Does An Anomaly Scan Matter?
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, filled with hope, joy, and anticipation. But with it also comes constant anxiety, especially for first-time mothers. In the second trimester, an anomaly scan is one of the most important scans you will undergo. This mid-pregnancy ultrasound reveals your baby's profile as well as gives insights into their development. For many expecting mothers, understanding what this scan does and why it’s done can bring clarity and peace of mind.
What Is An Anomaly Scan?
An
anomaly scan, also called a level 2 ultrasound or mid-pregnancy scan, is a detailed ultrasound usually performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. Unlike earlier ultrasounds that confirm pregnancy and check the heartbeat, the anomaly scan surfaces much deeper.
The primary goal is to check your baby’s organs, bones, and overall growth. It is a part of routine
prenatal screening and provides valuable medical insights into whether your baby is developing normally or if there are any signs of congenital conditions that may require monitoring or intervention.
When Is An Anomaly Scan Done and Why?
Timing is crucial for this scan. Between the 18th and 22nd week, your baby is developed enough for doctors to examine the major organs, but still small enough to be assessed clearly. It is a delicate window where
early diagnosis becomes possible, giving you more time to understand and prepare if any abnormalities are found.
Conditions Detected By An Anomaly Scan
The scan checks for a wide range of structural abnormalities, including:
- Spinal defects such as spina bifida
- Brain abnormalities
- Heart defects
- Cleft lip and palate
- Limb malformations
- Kidney or bladder issues
- Abdominal wall defects
- Growth restrictions or concerns with amniotic fluid
It also assesses your baby’s position, placenta location, and umbilical cord. This comprehensive scan is a cornerstone of fetal anomaly detection and gives both parents and doctors a clearer picture of the pregnancy.
What Happens During An Anomaly Scan?
You will lie on an examination table while a trained fetal medicine specialist or radiologist uses a handheld ultrasound probe with gel applied to your abdomen. The entire scan usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the baby’s position and visibility.
Many patients worry: Is it painful? Is it safe? Rest assured, the scan is non-invasive, safe, and painless. Some discomfort may occur if the sonographer needs to press firmly for better images, but this is minimal.
You may see your baby moving, sucking a thumb, or stretching during the scan. In some cases, if the baby isn’t in the ideal position, your doctor may ask you to move around or come back for a rescan.
Can You Find Out the Baby’s Sex During the Anomaly Scan?
In countries where it is legally permitted, the anomaly scan may also reveal the baby's sex. However, in India, sex determination during pregnancy is strictly prohibited under the PCPNDT Act. At Milann, we comply fully with these regulations to uphold ethical care and protect female child rights.
Why Anomaly Scan Is a Must for Every Pregnant Woman
It’s normal to feel nervous about what the anomaly scan might reveal. But this screening is essential for both baby and mother. It enables early medical planning, allows timely intervention, and in many cases, offers reassurance that everything is on track.
At Milann, we believe every expecting parent deserves transparent information, expert care, and heartfelt reassurance.
Emotional Support at Milann?
Hearing that something might not be right can be devastating. If the scan detects an issue, you will be referred to a fetal medicine specialist. At Milann, compassionate counselling and diagnostic clarity are always prioritized.
Many conditions are manageable, and early intervention makes a world of difference. A concerning scan result is not a conclusion; it’s a conversation starter with experts who care.
Book Your Anomaly Scan Today
Don’t wait until the last minute—your baby’s health deserves timely, expert care. At Milann, our fetal medicine specialists are trained to conduct comprehensive anomaly scans with accuracy and compassion. Whether you're a first-time mom or adding to your family, our team will walk you through every step, explain the findings in clear language, and ensure you feel supported no matter the outcome.
Book your scan today and take a confident step forward in your pregnancy journey.
Reviewed by
Dr. Varini N - Sr. Consultant - Obestetrician & Gynaecologist, Kumara Park.
