A morphology scan is a detailed ultrasound examination during pregnancy that is carried out to assess the baby’s development and anatomy. It is often referred to as an anomaly scan, mid-pregnancy scan or 20-week scan, but depending on the healthcare framework and individual circumstances the exact timing can differ.
The scan uses ultrasound waves to produce images of the developing baby. A certified healthcare professional looks at the baby’s body and assesses growth, anatomy and other features that are evident at this stage of pregnancy.
At the same time, the morphology scan is a very important step in a pregnancy, as it’s a more detailed view of the child’s development than a regular ultrasound.
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When is a Morphology Scan performed
The detailed anatomy scan is generally performed during the second trimester, often around 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy. The exact timing might depend on the healthcare system, the pregnancy and the quality of the images that can be obtained.
Sometimes the examination may take longer or need to be repeated if the baby's position makes it difficult to obtain clear images of particular structures.
A repeat scan does not necessarily mean that something is wrong. Babies move frequently, and their position can make certain anatomical views difficult to capture.
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What does the scan check
During a morphology scan, the sonographer or trained healthcare professional looks at several aspects of the baby’s anatomy and development.
Depending on clinical protocols, the assessment may include the:
- Brain and skull
- Face
- Heart
- Chest
- Abdomen
- Stomach
- Kidneys and bladder
- Arms, legs, hands and feet
The healthcare professional may also assess fetal growth, the placenta, amniotic fluid and other pregnancy-related structures.
The heart is particularly important as congenital heart conditions are among the abnormalities that can be identified during a detailed ultrasound.
Can a Morphology Scan Detect every problem
No. This is an important point for parents to see.
A morphology scan can identify many structural abnormalities, but it cannot detect every health condition, genetic disorder or developmental problem. Some conditions may not be visible on ultrasound, while others may develop or become apparent later in pregnancy.
The quality of the examination can be affected by fetal position, gestational age, maternal body composition and quality of ultrasound equipment.
A normal morphology scan is reassuring, but it does not guarantee that a baby will have no health problems.
Is the Morphology Scan safe
Ultrasound has been extensively used during pregnancy and is generally safe when performed appropriately for medical purposes.
Unlike X-rays, diagnostic ultrasound does not use ionising radiation. The examination is non-invasive and does not usually cause pain.
During the scan, a small amount of ultrasound gel is applied to the abdomen and a transducer is moved over the skin to produce images.
What happens in the appointment
The appointment can take 30 minutes or longer depending on the circumstances and if all the required images can be obtained.
The person having the scan usually lies on an examination bed while the sonographer moves the ultrasound transducer across the abdomen.
Healthcare professionals may concentrate closely on the screen when taking measurements and capturing specific images. This is not to say something is wrong with the scan; it means that it needs to be examined very closely and documented.
Depending on the clinic and local practice, parents may be able to see the baby’s movements and anatomy during the examination.
What If Something Unexpected Is Found
If the scan indicates a potential abnormality or a location to be further checked, the healthcare team will describe the results and may recommend additional testing or specialist consultation.
Based on the results of an ultrasound, a fetal medicine assessment, fetal echocardiography or other prenatal tests can be further evaluated.
It is important to note that an ultrasound finding does not always mean that a serious condition is present. Sometimes an apparent abnormality requires further imaging simply because the initial view was unclear.
How Should Parents prepare
Preparation instructions vary between clinics. Some facilities may suggest that someone arrive with a comfortably full bladder, particularly for certain types of pregnancy ultrasound, while others may not require this at the stage when the morphology scan is performed.
It is best to follow the instructions given by the healthcare facility.
Parents may want to write down questions to ask before the appointment. Pregnancy scans can be emotional experiences, and having questions prepared may make it easier to discuss concerns afterward.
Why the Morphology Scan Matters
The morphology scan is a critical component of antenatal care for the baby’s anatomy at a crucial stage in development.
For many families, it also helps to see the baby’s movements and development in the pregnancy to make it feel real. But parents need to keep in mind that a scan is a medical exam and not just an observer’s eye.
Finally, the morphology scan can provide valuable information about fetal development and help healthcare professionals identify when additional monitoring or specialist care is needed.
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