16 Week Scan During Pregnancy: What to Expect
The 16 week scan, also known as the anatomy scan, is a crucial milestone in your pregnancy journey. This scan provides a detailed look at your baby's growth and development, and it's an exciting time for expectant parents. Here's what you can expect during the 16 week scan.
What is the purpose of the 16 week scan?
The main purpose of the 16 week scan is to:
- Assess fetal anatomy: The scan checks for any abnormalities or defects in your baby's major organs, such as the heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys.
- Check for Down syndrome: The scan helps to identify the risk of Down syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities.
- Determine fetal size and growth: The scan measures your baby's growth and size to ensure they're developing normally.
- Check for multiple pregnancies: The scan confirms if you're having twins or multiple babies.
What to Expect During the Scan
During the 16 week scan, you can expect the following:
- A full bladder: You'll be asked to drink plenty of water to ensure your bladder is full, which helps the sonographer get a clearer image of your baby.
- A transabdominal scan: A probe will be moved across your abdomen to capture images of your baby.
- A detailed examination: The sonographer will examine your baby's body, checking for any abnormalities or defects.
- A report and discussion: The sonographer will provide a report of the scan and discuss any findings with you.
What You'll See During the Scan
During the 16 week scan, you'll get to see your baby in amazing detail. You can expect to see:
- Your baby's face: You might even get a glimpse of your baby's nose, mouth, and eyes.
- Your baby's movements: You'll see your baby kicking, punching, and moving around.
- Your baby's organs: You'll see your baby's heart beating, and the sonographer will check the functioning of other organs.
- Your baby's size and growth: You'll get an idea of your baby's size and growth, and the sonographer will measure the circumference of your baby's head and abdomen.
What Happens After the Scan?
After the 16 week scan, you can expect the following:
- A report and discussion: The sonographer will discuss the findings with you and provide a report.
- Further tests or monitoring: If any abnormalities are detected, you might need further tests or monitoring to ensure your baby's health.
- A sense of relief or excitement: You'll finally get to see your baby and know that they're healthy and growing normally.
Conclusion
The 16 week scan is an exciting milestone in your pregnancy journey. While it's a crucial scan, it's also a great opportunity to bond with your baby and see them in amazing detail. Remember to ask questions and discuss any concerns you have with your healthcare provider.
