Welcoming a new life into the world is a special journey for every mother and her family. During pregnancy, ultrasound scans play a very important role in making sure both mother and baby are healthy and safe. These scans help doctors keep track of the baby’s development, detect possible health issues early, and give parents peace of mind through each stage of pregnancy.
Importance of Pregnancy Scans:
Pregnancy scans are non-invasive tests that use sound waves to create images of the baby inside the uterus. They help:
- Confirm your pregnancy and check if it is progressing normally.
- Determine the exact due date.
- Monitor the growth and position of the baby.
- Detect any abnormalities early so proper steps can be taken.
- Reassure expectant parents by showing the baby’s heartbeat and movements.
Every mother should know about these top 5 essential pregnancy scans.
Here are the Top 5 Pregnancy Scans and Their Importance:
Early Pregnancy (Dating) Scan:
- When: 6–10 weeks (usually done before 12 weeks).
- Why: This scan confirms the pregnancy, estimates the due date, checks how many babies you are having, and detects the baby’s heartbeat. It helps make sure the baby is growing inside the uterus and not outside (ectopic pregnancy).
Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan:
- When: 11–14 weeks.
- Why: This scan measures the thickness of the fluid at the back of the baby’s neck. It is used to assess the risk of chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome and other genetic disorders. The NT scan is often done along with a blood test for more accurate results.
Anomaly Scan (Level 2 Ultrasound):
- When: 18–22 weeks.
- Why: Also called the “mid-pregnancy” or “structural scan”, it checks the baby’s organs, bones, and body parts in detail. The anomaly scan helps to detect physical abnormalities and confirms the placenta’s position. This is usually the most detailed scan during pregnancy.
Fetal Echocardiography (Fetal Echo Scan):
- When: 20–24 weeks.
- Why: This special scan is done to check the baby’s heart in more detail, especially if there is a family history of heart disease or other risk factors. It shows the baby’s heart structure and function, helping detect any heart problems early.
Growth Scan:
- When: 28–32 weeks, and sometimes again at 36 weeks.
- Why: This scan measures the baby’s growth, estimates weight, checks the amount of amniotic fluid, and assesses baby’s position. It ensures the baby is growing well in the final months.
Pregnancy Scan List with Recommended Timings:
3D and 4D Ultrasound Scans for Pregnancy:
Apart from the routine 2D scans, there are also 3D and 4D ultrasound scans, which are available at advanced diagnostic centres:
- 3D scans create three-dimensional images of the baby, helping doctors check certain abnormalities more clearly.
- 4D scans add the movement, so you see your baby in real-time (like a video).
- These are usually done at 26–30 weeks and are great for seeing the baby’s face and movements but are not always medically necessary.
How to Prepare for a Pregnancy Scan?
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes.
- For early scans, you may need a full bladder (drink water about an hour before).
- Bring previous reports and your doctor’s prescription.
- Usually, there is no pain involved and scans are completely safe for both mother and baby.
Looking for the Best Diagnostic Centre in Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune?
If you are searching for a trusted and modern diagnostic centre, Pearl Diagnostics in Shastri Nagar, Pimpri Colony, Pune, is the best choice.
- Pearl Diagnostics is managed by expert radiologist Dr. Sagar Sujanyal, who is highly experienced in all types of pregnancy ultrasound and diagnostic imaging.
- The centre provides all essential scans: Pregnancy Ultrasound, Level 1, Level 2, Colour Doppler, Fetal Echo, 3D/4D Ultrasound, and more.
- It is equipped with the latest technology and is an authorized partner of Golwilkar Metropolis Health Service in Pimpri for all kinds of blood and urine tests.
- Pearl Diagnostics is known for its commitment to quality, patient care, and accurate results.
Clinic Details:
- Address: Pearl Diagnostics, Jhamtani Building, near Ganesh Hotel, Shastri Nagar, Pimpri Colony, Pune, Maharashtra 411017
- Phone: +91-91569 59267
- Email: thepearldiagnostics@gmail.com
Book your appointment for ultrasound services in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune, and ensure the healthiest journey for you and your baby!
