Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative journey for expectant parents, filled with anticipation and excitement. One crucial aspect of prenatal care is monitoring the health and development of the growing fetus, which is often done through various pregnancy scans. These scans provide valuable insights into the well-being of both the baby and the mother. In this guide, we’ll explore types of pregnancy scans.
What Is a Pregnancy Scan?
A pregnancy scan (ultrasound) is a non-invasive medical procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the developing fetus in the womb on the screen. It is an essential tool in prenatal care, offering valuable information about the baby’s growth, health, and overall well-being.
Is Ultrasound in Pregnancy Safe?
Yes, ultrasound scans are safe for both the mother and the baby. The sound waves used in ultrasound scans are at a frequency too high for the human ear to hear, making them non-invasive and painless. Also, they do not emit ionizing radiation like X-rays, which harms the fetus. However, per medical guidelines, pregnant women should avoid undergoing excessive or unnecessary ultrasounds.
Types of Scans During Pregnancy
There are several different types of pregnancy scans, including:
- Dating Scan: This is one of the first scans you’ll have during pregnancy, usually around 8-14 weeks. It helps determine the due date by measuring the baby’s size.
- Date Estimating Scan: If your last menstrual period date is uncertain, a doctor might perform this scan to estimate how far along you are in your pregnancy.
- NT Scan (Nuchal Translucency Scan): Conducted between 11-14 weeks, this scan checks for Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities by measuring the fluid at the back of the baby’s neck.
- Anomaly Scan: Typically performed around 18-21 weeks, this detailed scan checks for any physical abnormalities in the baby’s organs and structure. A doctor may also perform an anomaly scan after an abnormal quadruple marker test result for further assessment.
- Fetal Echo: Usually done between 18-24 weeks, this scan focuses on the baby’s heart to detect congenital heart defects.
- 2D Scans: These provide two-dimensional images of the baby, usually used for monitoring and measuring.
- 3D Scans: These scans create three-dimensional images of the baby, providing more realistic pictures and details.
- 4D Scans: Similar to 3D scans, but with the added dimension of real-time movement, allowing you to see your baby’s actions, such as smiling or yawning.
- Fetal Doppler: This type of scan uses sound waves to monitor the baby’s heartbeat and is often used in routine prenatal check-ups.
How Much Does a Pregnancy Scan Cost?
The cost of pregnancy scans can vary widely depending on several factors, including:
- Location
- The type of scan
- Healthcare provider or facility
- Insurance coverage
- Additional services like souvenir photos and videos
For instance, in India, a typical anomaly scan costs around Rs 1,000 to Rs 4,000, while a specialized fetal echo may range from Rs 2,500 to Rs 3,000 or more. However, you should check with your healthcare provider to understand the costs associated with pregnancy scans in your area.
Take Away
Pregnancy scans are essential tools for monitoring the health and development of the baby during pregnancy. They provide valuable information to expectant parents and healthcare professionals, ensuring a safe and healthy pregnancy journey. While ultrasound scans are generally considered safe, you should consult your healthcare provider for guidance throughout pregnancy.