Anomaly Scan

The Anomaly Scan, often called the 20-week scan, is a detailed ultrasound usually performed between 20 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. This examination provides an in-depth look at your baby’s anatomy to check for structural abnormalities and ensure that development is progressing as expected.

When can I have the anomaly scan?

The scan is typically scheduled between 20 and 24 weeks. At this stage, your baby is developed enough for most major organs and structures to be clearly assessed.

What does the anomaly scan check for?

This scan carefully examines your baby’s anatomy, with particular focus on:

Brain and spine: To rule out neural tube defects.
Heart: Screening for congenital heart conditions.
Face: Checking for facial differences such as cleft lip or palate.
Abdominal organs: Assessing the stomach, kidneys, and bladder.
Limbs: Ensuring arms, legs, hands, and feet are developing normally.

In addition, the anomaly scan evaluates:

Placenta and amniotic fluid levels
Baby’s size and growth
Blood flow in the uterine arteries (uterine artery Doppler study) to assess risk of preeclampsia (pregnancy-related high blood pressure)

✨ If you wish, the baby’s sex can usually be identified at this stage.

If any concerns are detected, their significance will be explained to you, and you may be referred for a consultation with a specialist for further advice.

How is the anomaly scan performed?

The scan is performed transabdominally. A small amount of gel is applied to your abdomen, and the ultrasound probe is gently moved across the tummy to create detailed images of your baby.

Why is the anomaly scan important?

This is one of the most important pregnancy scans, as it allows doctors to:

Examine your baby’s body in detail
Identify or rule out structural abnormalities
Monitor growth and well-being
Provide reassurance about your baby’s development

Cost of the anomaly scan

Please see our Fees & Services page for current pricing, or get in touch with our team for more information.

Important information about your appointment

Duration: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour for singleton pregnancies.
Results: You will receive a full explanation at the end of the scan. A written report is provided immediately, and can also be emailed to your referring doctor.
Images: Both 2D (black-and-white) and 3D (colour) images are included at no extra cost. These make wonderful keepsakes to share with family and friends.
Second opinions: If attending for a second opinion, please bring any previous scan results or reports so our consultants can give the most accurate assessment.
Cervical assessment (if required): In some cases, we may recommend a transvaginal cervical scan to check for early signs of complications such as preterm birth. This is optional and carries an additional fee.