A Viability Scan is an early pregnancy ultrasound usually performed between 6 to 9 weeks of gestation. It confirms the pregnancy, detects the fetal heartbeat, and checks if the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus. This scan helps assess the number of embryos and estimate gestational age. It’s essential for women with a history of miscarriage or irregular cycles.

The NTNB Scan (Nuchal Translucency and Nasal Bone) is typically done between 11 and 14 weeks. It is a first-trimester screening that helps assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome (Trisomy 21). It involves measuring the fluid behind the baby’s neck and checking the nasal bone’s development. It is non-invasive and often combined with a double marker blood test for better accuracy.

An Anomaly Scan, also known as the Level 2 ultrasound, is conducted around 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy. It is a detailed fetal scan that checks for structural abnormalities in the baby’s organs, limbs, spine, and brain. This scan helps detect issues like cleft lip, congenital heart defects, spinal cord issues, and kidney malformations early, enabling better planning and care.

A Fetal Growth Scan is usually done in the third trimester, often after 28 weeks, to evaluate the baby’s growth, weight, and position. It helps assess if the fetus is growing appropriately for gestational age and identifies growth restrictions (IUGR) or macrosomia. It’s crucial in high-risk pregnancies such as those with diabetes, hypertension, or previous growth issues.

Doppler Studies use ultrasound to assess blood flow in the umbilical cord, fetal brain, and placenta. They are typically done in the third trimester for pregnancies with concerns like high blood pressure, fetal growth restriction (FGR), or reduced fetal movement. It helps monitor fetal well-being and guides decisions regarding early delivery if needed.

Fetal Echocardiography is a specialized ultrasound to evaluate the structure and function of the fetal heart. It is usually done between 18 and 24 weeks and is recommended when there’s a family history of congenital heart disease, abnormal findings in the anomaly scan, or maternal conditions like diabetes or infections. It helps detect congenital heart defects early for timely intervention.

Amniocentesis is a diagnostic test performed between 15 and 20 weeks where a small amount of amniotic fluid is extracted for testing. It helps detect genetic disorders, chromosomal abnormalities (like Down syndrome), and neural tube defects. It is considered safe when performed by experts but carries a very low risk of miscarriage (<1%).

CVS (Chorionic Villus Sampling) is done earlier than amniocentesis, usually between 11 and 13 weeks, to detect genetic and chromosomal disorders by analyzing placental tissue. It allows for earlier diagnosis but cannot detect certain conditions like neural tube defects, which amniocentesis can. CVS may be advised if there is a high-risk screening result or family history of genetic diseases.

Yes, all standard fetal ultrasound scans, including viability, NTNB, anomaly, growth scans, and Doppler, are considered safe, non-invasive, and radiation-free. They use sound waves to create images and are routinely used for monitoring fetal health and development.

Preparation depends on the scan. For early scans like viability and NTNB, a full bladder helps improve clarity. For later scans like anomaly or growth scans, no special preparation is usually needed. Your doctor will inform you of specific instructions based on the scan type. Always carry previous reports and come with a relaxed mind for the best experience.