What is a pregnancy (fetal medicine) scan?

Pregnancy ultrasound scans — also commonly called a baby scan or fetal scan — check on your baby's growth, development, and wellbeing at different stages. Dr. Chandak, who holds a fellowship in Fetal Medicine, performs the full range of fetal care scans recommended during pregnancy.

Which scans are done, and when?

  • Dating scan (7–12 weeks): confirms the pregnancy and estimated due date
  • NT / first trimester scan (11–14 weeks): assesses early risk of certain chromosomal conditions
  • Anomaly scan (18–22 weeks): checks the baby's structural development in detail
  • Growth scans (third trimester): monitor the baby's growth as the pregnancy progresses
  • Doppler studies: check blood flow to the baby, usually in higher-risk pregnancies (see our Doppler Study page)

How to prepare

A full bladder is often helpful for very early scans, as it gives a clearer view. Later in pregnancy, no special preparation is usually needed.

What happens during the scan

Gel is applied to the abdomen, and a probe is moved gently over the area. In very early pregnancy, an internal scan may occasionally give a clearer view. The scan is painless. Dr. Chandak checks the baby's heartbeat, measurements, and, depending on the stage, the developing organs.

What happens after the scan

There is no downtime. Images and findings are discussed with you, along with any recommended follow-up.

Is it safe for the baby?

Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and is considered safe at every stage of pregnancy.

A note on 4D sonography 4D sonography creates a more lifelike, moving image of the baby's face and movements. It is mainly used for bonding and visualization rather than as the main diagnostic tool — the standard anomaly scan remains the key scan for checking the baby's structural health.

Frequently asked questions

Most pregnancies need a dating scan, an NT scan, an anomaly scan, and growth scans in the third trimester. Dr. Chandak will guide you on the exact schedule for your pregnancy.

Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and is considered safe throughout pregnancy.

Yes, growth scans specifically measure your baby's size and compare it to expected ranges for that stage of pregnancy.

4D sonography shows a moving, lifelike image of the baby, mainly for visualization. It is optional and does not replace the standard anomaly scan for checking the baby's health.