Pregnancy is a journey filled with excitement and anticipation. As your baby grows inside your womb, it’s important to monitor their development at regular intervals. One of the most essential tools used by obstetricians and fetal medicine specialists is the fetal growth scan. These scans are vital for assessing your baby’s health and ensuring that they are growing at a normal rate.
Let’s explore the purpose, timing, and significance of growth scans during pregnancy—and how they help ensure the well-being of both mother and baby.
What Is a Fetal Growth Scan?
A growth scan, also known as a fetal well-being scan, is a type of ultrasound performed to assess the baby’s growth and development inside the womb. Unlike the early pregnancy scans, which focus on dating and detecting structural abnormalities, a growth scan is done in the second or third trimester to check if the baby is growing as expected.
When Are Growth Scans Done?
Growth scans are typically done in the third trimester, around 28–32 weeks, and sometimes repeated at 36 weeks or later if required. However, the exact timing may vary depending on your individual pregnancy needs.
If you’re experiencing a high-risk pregnancy—such as with gestational diabetes, hypertension, previous complications, or multiple pregnancies—your doctor may recommend more frequent growth scans to monitor the baby more closely.
What Does a Growth Scan Measure?
A fetal growth scan provides detailed information about:
- Fetal Weight Estimation: Using measurements of the baby’s head, abdomen, and femur, the scan estimates the baby’s current weight and tracks whether it aligns with expected growth curves.
- Amniotic Fluid Levels: Too much or too little amniotic fluid can signal complications that may require intervention.
- Placental Position and Health: Ensures that the placenta is functioning properly and is not in an abnormal position (like placenta previa).
- Fetal Movements and Heartbeat: Helps assess overall fetal well-being.
- Blood Flow Through Umbilical Cord (Doppler Scan): Evaluates if the baby is receiving enough oxygen and nutrients.
Why Are Growth Scans Important?
- Early Detection of Growth Problems
Growth scans help identify intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or macrosomia (baby growing too large). Detecting these issues early allows doctors to adjust care and plan the safest timing and mode of delivery. - Monitoring High-Risk Pregnancies
For mothers with complications like high blood pressure, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders, growth scans help keep a close eye on fetal development and prevent adverse outcomes. - Reassurance for Parents
Seeing your baby’s growth and heartbeat during the scan offers emotional reassurance and a connection with the baby.
Expert Care for Every Stage
Growth scans are an important part of prenatal care and should be interpreted by a qualified Fetal Medicine Specialist. Dr. Mamta Phogat, recognized as the best Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist in Faridabad, provides accurate and detailed growth assessments, helping expectant parents make informed decisions throughout their pregnancy journey.
Your baby’s development deserves expert attention because every week of growth counts.