{"id":27653,"date":"2024-11-15T14:47:42","date_gmt":"2024-11-15T22:47:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/?p=27653"},"modified":"2024-11-19T10:06:18","modified_gmt":"2024-11-19T18:06:18","slug":"20-week-anatomy-scan-a-complete-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/20-week-anatomy-scan-a-complete-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Expect at Your 20-Week Anatomy Scan: A Complete Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wpb-content-wrapper\">\n<div  data-mk-stretch-content=\"true\" class=\"wpb_row vc_row vc_row-fluid jupiter-donut- mk-fullwidth-false  attched-false     js-master-row  mk-grid\">\n\t\t\t\t\n<div class=\"vc_col-sm-8 wpb_column column_container  jupiter-donut- _ jupiter-donut-height-full\">\n\t\n<div id=\"text-block-2\" class=\"mk-text-block  jupiter-donut-\">\n\n\t\n\t<h3><b>20-Week Anatomy Scan: What to Expect During This Important Milestone<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 20-week ultrasound is often referred to as the anatomy scan, and for good reason. This key appointment plays a crucial role in monitoring the health and development of your baby. Here\u2019s a comprehensive guide on what to expect during this exciting milestone in your pregnancy journey.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-27655\" src=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/what-to-expect-at-your-20-week-anatomy-scan-a-complete-guide-300x225.png\" alt=\"What to Expect at Your 20-Week Anatomy Scan A Complete Guide\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/what-to-expect-at-your-20-week-anatomy-scan-a-complete-guide-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/what-to-expect-at-your-20-week-anatomy-scan-a-complete-guide-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/what-to-expect-at-your-20-week-anatomy-scan-a-complete-guide-600x450.png 600w, https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/what-to-expect-at-your-20-week-anatomy-scan-a-complete-guide.png 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/>Scan Details<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 20-week anatomy scan usually lasts between 45 and 60 minutes, making it a more detailed examination compared to previous ultrasounds. This is the ideal time for the scan, typically conducted between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. It\u2019s recommended that you arrive with a full bladder, as this can improve the clarity of the images. Most hospitals and clinics also welcome partners to join in this appointment, providing a wonderful opportunity for both parents to bond with their baby and share in the experience.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>What\u2019s Examined?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 20-week anatomy scan focuses on several key areas to assess the baby\u2019s development and overall health. Here\u2019s a breakdown of what will be examined during your ultrasound:<\/span><\/p>\n<h5><b>1. Physical Structures<\/b><\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ultrasound technician will carefully evaluate various physical structures to ensure that everything is developing normally. Key areas of focus include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Brain and Spine<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The technician will check for any abnormalities in the brain and spinal cord, ensuring they are forming properly.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Heart Chambers<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The heart will be examined to ensure all four chambers are present and functioning well.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Kidneys and Bladder<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The technician will assess the baby\u2019s kidneys and bladder to make sure they are in the correct position and working properly.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Arms and Legs<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: All limbs will be examined for proper development and movement.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Face and Lips<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Features of the face, including the lips and nasal structures, will be checked for any clefts or other issues.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h5><b>2. Measurements<\/b><\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to examining physical structures, the technician will take several key measurements to assess the growth of your baby:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Head Circumference<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This measurement helps assess brain growth and overall development.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Femur Length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Measuring the thigh bone can give insights into the baby\u2019s growth pattern.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Abdominal Circumference<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This measurement helps determine the growth of the baby\u2019s abdominal area, indicating overall health.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Overall Growth<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: All measurements will be compared to standard growth charts to ensure the baby is growing within a healthy range.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h5><b>3. Placenta Position<\/b><\/h5>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another critical aspect of the 20-week anatomy scan is the examination of the placenta. The technician will assess:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Location<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The position of the placenta in relation to the uterus is crucial for a healthy pregnancy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Distance from Cervix<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: It\u2019s important to determine how far the placenta is from the cervix, as a low-lying placenta can pose complications later in pregnancy.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Blood Flow<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The blood flow to the placenta will also be evaluated, ensuring it\u2019s functioning properly to support the baby\u2019s growth.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>Questions to Ask<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is also a great time to ask any questions you may have. Here are a few suggestions:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Gender<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: If you wish to know the gender of your baby, be sure to ask if they can determine it.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Growth Percentiles<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Inquire about how your baby\u2019s growth compares to standard percentiles.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Placenta Position<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Understanding the position of the placenta can provide peace of mind.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Amniotic Fluid Levels<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Ask about the levels of amniotic fluid, which are crucial for the baby\u2019s development.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>Preparing for the Scan<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before heading to your appointment, there are a few things you can do to prepare:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Hydrate<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Drink plenty of water before the scan to ensure your bladder is full, which helps create clearer images.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Wear Comfortable Clothing<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Opt for something easy to remove from your waist, as you may need to expose your abdomen for the ultrasound.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bring Support<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Consider bringing your partner or a close family member to share in the experience.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>Understanding the Results<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After the scan, the technician will usually not provide detailed results on the spot, as they will send the images to your healthcare provider. Your doctor will discuss the findings during your next appointment. It\u2019s important to remember that while some issues can be detected, many are normal and do not indicate any problems.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>After the Scan<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once the 20-week anatomy scan is complete, take some time to reflect on this pivotal moment in your pregnancy. It\u2019s an opportunity to connect with your baby, and many parents find comfort in seeing their baby\u2019s development.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>Reputable Sources<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For more detailed information on prenatal health, consider checking out these trusted resources:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/healthy-lifestyle\/pregnancy-week-by-week\/in-depth\/prenatal-care\/art-20044581\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Prenatal care: Second trimester visits<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/birth-defects\/diagnosis\/screening-for-birth-defects.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Screening for Birth Defects<\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/tests-procedures\/ultrasound-in-pregnancy\/about\/pac-20380196\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mayo Clinic &#8211; Ultrasound in Pregnancy<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/ncbddd\/pregnancy_gateway\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) &#8211; Pregnancy<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"cdc-page-title cdc-page-offset syndicate\"><\/div>\n<h3>Other topics you might be interested in:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/second-trimester-2\/\">Second Trimester (Weeks 13-26) of Your Pregnancy Adventure: Embrace the Honeymoon Phase!<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3><b>Conclusion<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 20-week anatomy scan is a significant milestone in your pregnancy journey. It\u2019s an exciting time to gain insight into your baby\u2019s development and health. By preparing for the scan and knowing what to expect, you can make the most of this important appointment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you found this guide helpful, please share it with other expecting parents! Knowing what to expect during the 20-week anatomy scan can ease anxiety and help make the experience even more special.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By sharing this information, you can help other expecting parents feel more confident and prepared for their upcoming appointments.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\t<div class=\"clearboth\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"vc_col-sm-4 wpb_column column_container  jupiter-donut- _ jupiter-donut-height-full\">\n\t\n<aside id=\"mk-sidebar\" class=\"jupiter-donut-\">\n\t<div class=\"sidebar-wrapper\" style=\"padding:0;\">\n\t\t<section id=\"categories-5\" class=\"widget widget_categories\"><div class=\"widgettitle\">Cat\u00e9gories<\/div>\n\t\t\t<ul>\n\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-31\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/all\/\">All<\/a>\n<\/li>\n\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-32\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/baby-gift\/\">Baby Gift<\/a>\n<\/li>\n\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-30\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/free-baby-samples\/\">Baby Samples<\/a>\n<\/li>\n\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-343\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/developmental-milestones-your-childs-journey-from-0-5-years\/\">Developmental Milestones: Your Child&#039;s Journey from 0-5 Years<\/a>\n<ul class='children'>\n\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-427\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/developmental-milestones-your-childs-journey-from-0-5-years\/baby\/\">Baby<\/a>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-344\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/middle-childhood-6-11-years\/\">Middle Childhood 6-11 years<\/a>\n<\/li>\n\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-340\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/navigating-the-first-trimester-0-12-weeks\/\">Navigating the First Trimester 0-12 weeks<\/a>\n<\/li>\n\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-423\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/postpartum-wellness\/\">Postpartum Wellness<\/a>\n<\/li>\n\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-33\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/pregnancy\/\">Pregnancy<\/a>\n<\/li>\n\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-399\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/teenagers-12-18-years\/\">Teenagers 12-18 years<\/a>\n<\/li>\n\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-341\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/the-second-trimester-journey-13-26-weeks\/\">The Second Trimester Journey 13-26 weeks<\/a>\n<\/li>\n\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/uncategorized\/\">Uncategorized<\/a>\n<\/li>\n\t<li class=\"cat-item cat-item-342\"><a href=\"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/category\/your-complete-guide-to-weeks-27-40\/\">Your Complete Guide to Weeks 27-40<\/a>\n<\/li>\n\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\n\t\t\t<\/section>\t<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n\n<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"20-Week Anatomy Scan: What to Expect During This Important Milestone The 20-week ultrasound is often referred to as the anatomy scan, and for good reason. This key appointment plays a crucial role in monitoring the health and development of your baby. Here\u2019s a comprehensive guide on what to expect during this exciting milestone in your [...]","protected":false},"author":325,"featured_media":27655,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"pmpro_default_level":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[33,341],"tags":[362,361],"class_list":["post-27653","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-pregnancy","category-the-second-trimester-journey-13-26-weeks","tag-20-week-milestone","tag-anatomy-scan","pmpro-has-access"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27653","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/325"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27653"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27653\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":27949,"href":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27653\/revisions\/27949"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27655"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27653"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=27653"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mybellababy.ca\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=27653"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}