Baby Wellbeing or Baby Growth scan is an ultrasound scan measuring baby’s growth and development during the third trimester, usually, although it could be done earlier if there are any concerns or parents-to-be just wish to be reassured that everything is as should be.
It is performed between weeks 24-40 of the pregnancy and it is not usually offered on the NHS, except for when there are particular concerns over the baby measuring too small or too big during the routine 20 Week Anatomy scan.
Baby Wellbeing or Growth scan would be particularly important for women who might have had a history of premature delivery, gestational diabetes, maternal type 1 diabetes or maternal type 2 diabetes, problems with thyroid or a risk of pre-eclampsia.
This is an external, transabdonimal scan, where the ultrasound probe gently glides over your abdomen. It is completely painless and safe for you and your baby.
- Circumference of baby’s head
- Circumference of baby’s abdomen
- Length of baby’s thigh bone
- Amount of amniotic fluid around the baby
- Fetal position and movements in the womb
- Placental position and maturity
When measuring fetal size we will use growth charts and plot baby’s size against the number of weeks in order to assess growth and development.
This will also provide us with an estimated fetal weight at birth.
Sometimes we will need to perform more detailed examination and check baby’s limbs, fluid spaces within the head, as well as perform various Doppler measurements to verify the sufficiency in blood flow.
No particular preparations are required
We introduced an easy and user friendly online booking system for your convenience. We understand the pressures of our fast-lane lifestyles nowadays and strive to meet your busy schedule by offering a fast-track, same day appointments during weekdays and Saturdays, as well as 2 evening clinics each week (appointments after 5pm carry a £20 supplemental charge).