Growth Scan: Everything You Need to Know
A growth scan is a medical procedure that is usually done during pregnancy. It is a type of ultrasound scan that helps to check the growth of the baby in the womb. During a growth scan, the size and weight of the baby are measured, and the position of the placenta and the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby are also checked. This information can help doctors to monitor the health and development of the baby, and to make any necessary adjustments to the pregnancy care plan.
Why are Growth Scans Done?
Growth scans are usually done for a few different reasons. One of the main reasons is to check the growth and development of the baby. If there are any concerns about the baby's growth, such as if the mother has gestational diabetes or if there is a history of small babies in the family, a growth scan may be recommended.
Another reason why growth scans are done is to check the position of the placenta. The placenta is an organ that grows in the uterus during pregnancy and provides the baby with oxygen and nutrients. If the placenta is in an unusual position, such as covering the cervix, it can cause complications during delivery, and a growth scan can help to identify this.
Growth scans are also used to check the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby. Amniotic fluid is the liquid that surrounds the baby in the womb, and it helps to protect the baby and keep them at a stable temperature. If there is too little or too much amniotic fluid, it can indicate a problem with the pregnancy that needs to be addressed.
When are Growth Scans Done?
Growth scans are usually done during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. The exact timing of the scan will depend on the reason for the scan and the healthcare provider's recommendations. In general, growth scans are done around 20 weeks of pregnancy, and then again around 32-36 weeks of pregnancy.
If there are any concerns about the baby's growth or development, additional growth scans may be recommended. Similarly, if there are any complications with the pregnancy, such as if the mother has high blood pressure or if the baby is not moving as much as usual, a growth scan may be recommended.
What Happens During a Growth Scan?
A growth scan is a non-invasive procedure that is usually done in a hospital or clinic setting. During the scan, the mother lies down on an examination table, and a technician will apply a special gel to her belly. This gel helps to transmit sound waves from the ultrasound machine to the baby.
The technician will then use a small handheld device called a transducer to gently move over the mother's belly. This device sends and receives sound waves, which bounce off the baby and create a picture on a screen. The technician will use this picture to measure the size and weight of the baby, and to check the position of the placenta and the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby.
The scan usually takes around 30-45 minutes to complete, and it is painless and safe for both the mother and the baby. After the scan, the results will be reviewed by a healthcare provider, who will discuss any findings with the mother and make any necessary adjustments to the pregnancy care plan.
Are There Any Risks to a Growth Scan?
Growth scans are generally considered safe for both the mother and the baby. The ultrasound waves used during the scan are non-ionizing, which means they do not carry the same risks as X-rays or other forms of radiation. However, like any medical procedure, there are some risks to consider.
One potential risk of a growth scan is that it can lead to unnecessary interventions. If the scan shows that the baby is smaller than expected, for example, the healthcare provider may recommend inducing labor or delivering the baby early. However, this can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby, especially if the baby is not actually in distress.
Another potential risk of a growth scan is that it can be emotionally stressful for the mother. If the scan shows that there are concerns about the baby's growth or development, the mother may feel anxious or worried. However, it is important to remember that growth scans are simply a tool to help monitor the health and development of the baby, and that many babies who are born small or have other complications during pregnancy go on to be healthy and happy.
Conclusion
A growth scan is a medical procedure that is usually done during pregnancy to check the growth and development of the baby. It is a safe and non-invasive procedure that can help to identify any potential problems with the pregnancy, such as if the baby is not growing as expected or if the placenta is in an unusual position. If you are pregnant and have been recommended for a growth scan, don't be afraid to ask your healthcare provider any questions you may have. This can help you to feel more informed and confident about your pregnancy care plan.
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