Anatomy Scan (2nd Trimester Ultrasound)

What is the targeted ultrasound known as the 2nd trimester ultrasound?

The best time to receive this test is between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. It lasts between 30 minutes and one hour (depending on the cooperation of your baby). An ultrasound technician will measure your baby from crown to rump, around the middle, and around the head. The four chambers of the heart will be viewed, as well as the kidneys, bladder, stomach, brain, spine, and sex organs.

Most major problems with the way your baby might be formed can be seen at this time. But some problems like clubbed feet and heart defects can be missed on ultrasound. Your doctor also will be able to see if your baby has any neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.

This test is not the most accurate for finding out whether your baby has Down syndrome. Only 1 in 3 babies with Down syndrome have an abnormal 2nd trimester ultrasound. In most cases, your doctor can find out the sex of your baby by using ultrasound.

Boy or Girl?

You can also find out the sex of your baby during the 2nd trimester ultrasound if your baby is in the right position, that is, if your little one isn’t hiding the goods. Many mothers can’t for the moment during the ultrasound to find our whether she’s carrying a boy or girl, while others want a more traditional surprise. There are pros to both, so be sure to tell your sonographer if you don’t want to know whether it’s a boy or girl.