Dating Scan/Viability Scan
The Dating or Viability Scan is typically performed early in the first trimester (around 6-10 weeks). Its primary purpose is to confirm the presence of a viable pregnancy, determine the exact gestational age of the fetus, estimate the expected date of delivery (EDD), and check for the number of fetuses present (single or multiple pregnancy).
First Trimester Screening - Nuchal Translucency / Nasal Bone Scan with Double Marker and Pre-Eclampsia Screening
This comprehensive screening is performed around 11 to 14 weeks. It involves an ultrasound to measure the Nuchal Translucency (fluid at the back of the baby's neck) and visualize the nasal bone, combined with a maternal blood test (Double Marker) to calculate the risk for chromosomal abnormalities like Down Syndrome. It also incorporates blood pressure and uterine artery Doppler to screen for early risk of Pre-Eclampsia.
3D/4D Genetic Sonogram
The 3D/4D sonogram provides highly detailed, three-dimensional images of the fetus, with 4D adding the dimension of real-time movement. While primarily used to enhance visualization of the fetal surface (face, limbs), the 3D images can be particularly helpful in confirming and detailing complex fetal anomalies identified during a standard 2D scan.
TIFFA/MTAS/Anomaly Scan (Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies / Mid-Trimester Anomaly Scan)
The Anomaly Scan, usually performed between 18 and 22 weeks, is the most crucial scan of the pregnancy. The sonographer meticulously examines every organ system—including the brain, heart, spine, kidneys, and limbs—to rule out major structural abnormalities and ensure that the baby is developing normally.
Fetal Echocardiography
Fetal Echocardiography is a specialized ultrasound that provides a detailed assessment of the baby’s heart structure, function, and rhythm while still in the womb. This scan is typically recommended for pregnancies with a family history of congenital heart defects or when the standard anomaly scan raises concerns about the fetal heart.
Neurosonogram
A Neurosonogram is a highly detailed ultrasound focusing specifically on the fetal brain and nervous system. It is performed when anomalies of the central nervous system are suspected or detected on a routine scan, providing critical information for diagnosis and counseling.
Growth Scan
Growth scans are performed in the third trimester to monitor the baby’s growth, weight, and fluid levels (Amniotic Fluid Index - AFI). These scans help determine if the baby is growing at an appropriate rate and is essential for identifying conditions like Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) or macrosomia (overgrowth).
Fetal Doppler
Fetal Doppler ultrasound assesses blood flow in the fetal and maternal blood vessels, particularly the umbilical cord and the fetal brain arteries. It is a critical tool for monitoring the well-being of the baby, especially in high-risk pregnancies, as it helps identify if the placenta is adequately supplying oxygen and nutrients.
Rh Negative Pregnancy Monitoring
This involves specialized monitoring for mothers who are Rh-negative. Regular blood tests and fetal surveillance, including Doppler scans, are essential to detect and manage potential complications like fetal anemia, which can occur if the mother's immune system attacks the Rh-positive red blood cells of the fetus.
Twin Pregnancy Scans
Twin pregnancies require more frequent and specialized ultrasound monitoring due to the increased risks of complications like pre-term labor and growth discordance. Scans track the growth of each baby individually, monitor the separating membrane, and check for unique twin complications such as Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS).
High-Risk Pregnancies Monitoring
High-risk pregnancies (due to maternal diabetes, hypertension, advanced age, etc.) require intensive fetal monitoring. This includes more frequent Growth Scans, Doppler studies, and Biophysical Profiles (BPP) to ensure continuous assessment of the baby's health and placental function.
Fetal 3D Scans
Fetal 3D scans are used to get a clear, three-dimensional still image of the baby in the womb. Beyond providing memorable keepsakes, the ability to see three planes simultaneously can assist doctors in visualizing the external structure of the baby more clearly than a standard 2D scan.
Genetic Counselling
Genetic Counselling involves assessing and discussing the risk of inherited conditions or chromosomal abnormalities, particularly after abnormal screening test results (like NT or NIPT). The counselor provides information on diagnostic tests (like amniocentesis) and helps the parents understand the implications of the results for their family.
Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening (NIPS) / Aneuploidy Screening
NIPS, also known as Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), is a blood test performed after 10 weeks of pregnancy. It analyzes small fragments of the baby's DNA (circulating cell-free fetal DNA) in the mother's blood to screen for common chromosomal conditions (aneuploidies) like Down syndrome, trisomy 18, and trisomy 13 with high accuracy.