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Fetal Growth and Wellbeing Ultrasound Scan

Overview

A growth and wellbeing ultrasound scan is an examination which is carried out after 12 weeks of pregnancy. This scan helps with reassurance as well as detecting various conditions that could be affecting your pregnancy. At KMU we will determine the gender of your baby and where possible do a 3D/4D scan free of charge after 16 weeks.

Why Have a growth and wellbeing scan? 

There are lots of reasons for us undertaking a scan in pregnancy and these include:

  • We can provide reassurance about your baby’s heartbeat, movement, and growth.
  • We can check some of your baby’s anatomy and gender if you want to know (please note that we do not offer a full anatomy scan, this should be undertaken by the Sonographers in the NHS so that your midwife has an official record of the wellbeing of your pregnancy)
  • We can assess the amniotic fluid (the fluid around your baby) and the position of the placenta 
  • We can undertake an umbilical artery Doppler assessment after 28 weeks gestation if it is needed. The Sonographer will discuss the reasons for this with you during the scan.
  • We can determine your baby’s position at the time of the examination but please be aware babies can move around at any time during the pregnancy

Receiving results

Following the examination, the Sonographer will discuss the findings with you and you will receive a written report and some pictures of your baby. 

If there is a problem found during the scan then Sonographer will refer you to your midwife or local hospital for further follow up.

What is included in this scan? 

You will receive a report and pictures to take home. If possible, we can provide a complimentary 3D/4D scan of your baby, depending on the baby’s position. Sometimes these images may not be achieved.

Recording on a mobile phone 

You may record on your mobile phone for personal use but not for sharing on social media. The sonographer will first check your baby’s heartbeat and ensure there are no major issues. No commentary will be provided during recording, and you cannot film the sonographer. 

Limitations of ultrasound 

Unfortunately, ultrasound has its limitations and we may not get the best views if you have a high BMI, excess gas in your abdomen, if you haven’t followed any preparation instructions, if your baby is lying in an awkward position or if the fluid around your baby is reduced. If we think we can get better views in some of these cases we will rebook you for a follow-up scan, which will be free of charge. 

Ultrasound can only detect abnormalities that are present at the time of the scan. Abnormalities can develop at any time, and while the Sonographer will look for early changes, they cannot predict the future. If you have concerns about anything, please discuss them with the Sonographer before, during or after the scan.