What is Fetal Imaging and Screening?

Fetal imaging and screening involve a series of non-invasive tests performed at specific intervals during pregnancy. Unlike diagnostic tests (which give a definitive answer), screening tests calculate the probability of certain conditions, such as chromosomal abnormalities or structural heart defects.

The goal is twofold:

1. Reassurance: To confirm that the baby is growing normally and hitting their developmental targets.
2. Early Intervention: To identify potential health issues early enough that we can plan specialized care during pregnancy or immediately after birth in our Level III NICU.

Key Milestones in Fetal Imaging

1. First Trimester: The Foundation (11–13 Weeks)

This is a critical window for early screening.

• NT Scan (Nuchal Translucency): We measure the thickness of the fluid at the back of the baby's neck.
• Nasal Bone Assessment: The presence of a visible nasal bone is a positive indicator of normal chromosomal development.
• Early Anatomy Check: We look for the "butterfly sign" in the brain and ensure the limbs and abdominal wall are forming correctly.

2. Second Trimester: The Anomaly Scan (18–20 Weeks)

Often considered the most important scan of the pregnancy, the Level II Anomaly Scan is a detailed head-to-toe examination. We evaluate:

• Brain & Spine: To rule out neural tube defects.
• The Heart: A detailed "Fetal Echo" to check the four chambers and major blood vessels.
• Face & Lips: Checking for conditions like cleft lip or palate.
• Kidneys & Bladder: Ensuring the baby's waste-processing systems are functional.

3. Third Trimester: Growth and Wellbeing (28–34 Weeks)

As you approach delivery, the focus shifts to the baby’s environment and readiness for the world.

• Fetal Doppler: This measures the blood flow from the placenta to the baby, ensuring they are receiving adequate oxygen.
• Growth Tracking: We estimate the baby’s weight and monitor amniotic fluid levels.

Advanced Genetic Screening

In addition to imaging, we offer advanced blood-based screenings that work in tandem with your scans:

• Double/Triple/Quadruple Marker Tests: These analyze proteins and hormones in the mother's blood to assess the risk of Down Syndrome and other trisomies.
• NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing): A highly accurate blood test that analyzes fetal DNA fragments found in the mother’s blood as early as 10 weeks.

Why Choose Ashoka Women & Children Hospital?

Fetal imaging is a highly specialized field that requires more than just a machine; it requires a specialist who knows exactly what to look for.

• Fetal Medicine Experts: Our scans are performed by clinicians with advanced training in fetal anomalies and high-risk obstetrics.
• High-Resolution 3D/4D Technology: We use cutting-edge equipment that provides crystal-clear images, allowing for better diagnostic accuracy and a beautiful bonding experience for parents.
• Seamless Integration: If a scan reveals a complication, our Maternity Care and Neonatology teams are brought in immediately to create a collaborative care plan for the remainder of your pregnancy.
• Counseling and Support: We believe in transparency. If a screening shows a higher risk, our team provides compassionate, clear Genetic Screening counseling to help you understand your options.

Empowering Your Pregnancy with Knowledge

Fetal imaging provides the peace of mind that comes from knowing your baby is being watched over by experts. By staying on track with your recommended screening schedule, you are giving your baby the best possible start in life.

At Ashoka Women & Children Hospital, we provide the vision to protect the future of your family.