When it comes to pregnancy care, one of the most common questions expectant parents ask is about growth scans: what they are, how they differ from other ultrasounds, and how accurate they really are. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about growth scans, helping you feel informed and empowered during your pregnancy journey.
Growth scans are an important part of pregnancy care for many, but not everyone will need one. Whether you’re curious about what a growth scan involves or wondering if it's right for you, let's dive into the details and clear up the most common questions about this ultrasound procedure.
A growth scan is a specialized ultrasound focused primarily on assessing your baby's growth and development in the womb. The main goal is to determine whether your baby is growing as expected — that means checking if the baby is smaller or larger than they should be for their gestational age. Additionally, a growth scan can reveal the baby's position inside the womb, such as whether they are head down or breech.
In contrast, an anatomy or anomaly scan is a more detailed ultrasound typically performed earlier in pregnancy, around 18 to 22 weeks. This scan looks closely at all of your baby's anatomy — organs, limbs, brain structures, and more — to detect any physical anomalies or developmental issues. The growth scan is more focused on size and well-being later in pregnancy, while the anatomy scan is a comprehensive structural check.
Growth scans are performed using ultrasound technology, which uses sound waves to create images of your baby inside the womb. The scan is done externally, meaning the ultrasound probe is moved across your belly. It is not an internal ultrasound like some early pregnancy scans.
At SonoCare Ultrasound, expert sonographers conduct growth scans with care and precision, ensuring you get clear images and accurate measurements while feeling comfortable throughout the process.
During a growth scan, several key measurements are taken to assess your baby's size and health:
Besides size, the scan can also show:
One of the biggest concerns expectant parents have is how accurate growth scans are. While ultrasound technology has advanced greatly, it's important to understand that measurements during the late stages of pregnancy are estimates rather than exact figures. Factors like the baby's position, the amount of amniotic fluid, and even the skill of the sonographer can influence the accuracy.
This is why growth scans are not routine for everyone during pregnancy. They are typically recommended only when there are concerns about the baby's size or well-being.
Growth scans are generally recommended during the third trimester if your healthcare provider suspects your baby may be smaller or larger than expected, or if there are other concerns like low amniotic fluid or issues with placental blood flow. They’re not routinely done for every pregnancy but are common when closer monitoring is needed.
The timing of growth scans varies, but many providers schedule them around 36 weeks or sometimes at 38 weeks, depending on your pregnancy care plan.
If you’re curious or worried about your baby's growth, you can certainly ask your healthcare provider to schedule a growth scan. However, whether or not your request is granted depends on your provider's medical judgment and the specific needs of your pregnancy. It's always best to discuss your concerns openly and make decisions together through shared decision-making and informed consent.
The number of growth scans you might have depends on your pregnancy's individual circumstances. If your provider detects a potential issue or if there's something that requires close monitoring, you may have multiple growth scans during the third trimester. If everything is progressing normally, you might only have one or none at all.
Unlike early pregnancy ultrasounds used to determine your estimated due date, growth scans do not change your due date. They are about monitoring growth rather than dating the pregnancy. However, the results of a growth scan might influence decisions about when to deliver, such as scheduling an induction if your baby is not growing well or if there are other concerns.
Insurance coverage for growth scans varies widely depending on your provider, plan, and location. Generally, if there is a documented medical need — such as concerns about fetal growth or other complications — growth scans are more likely to be covered. However, coverage cannot be guaranteed for all patients, so it's best to check with your insurance provider.
Usually, growth scans are standard 2D ultrasounds. They focus on measurements and basic images needed to assess growth and position. 3D ultrasounds are typically reserved for more detailed anatomy checks or elective keepsake images and are not commonly used for growth scans.
Another common question is how growth scans differ from a biophysical profile (BPP). While a growth scan measures the size of your baby, a BPP assesses how well your baby is doing overall. A BPP looks at factors like your baby's heart rate, movements, breathing, and muscle tone. It does not estimate size or weight. Both tests can provide valuable information, but they serve different purposes in pregnancy care.
When you go for a growth scan, you’ll lie down comfortably while the sonographer applies a gel to your belly and moves the ultrasound probe around to get images of your baby. The process is painless and non-invasive. You’ll likely see the baby on the screen and may even get to watch their movements.
The sonographer will take measurements of your baby's head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length. They will also check the baby's position and the amount of amniotic fluid. The scan usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
No medical procedure is mandatory without your informed consent. Growth scans are optional and should be part of a shared decision-making process between you and your healthcare provider. If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to discuss them openly with your care team.
If you’re looking for a reliable place to have your growth scan, SonoCare Ultrasound offers comprehensive pregnancy care services including detailed growth scans performed by experienced sonographers. They provide a comfortable environment and clear explanations throughout the process, helping you feel confident and informed about your baby's health.
The main purpose is to assess your baby's size and growth, check their position, measure amniotic fluid levels, and evaluate blood flow between the placenta and baby.
Yes, growth scans estimate the baby's size and can indicate if the baby is smaller or larger than expected for their gestational age.
Growth scans provide estimates, but they are not perfectly accurate. Factors like baby's position and fluid levels can affect measurements.
Growth scans are most commonly done in the third trimester, often around 36 weeks, but timing can vary based on your pregnancy care plan.
You can request one, but your healthcare provider will decide if it's medically necessary based on your pregnancy's circumstances.
Coverage varies. If there is a medical indication, they are more likely to be covered, but it's best to check with your insurance provider.
That depends on your pregnancy. Some people have only one, others may have multiple if there are concerns that need monitoring.
No. A growth scan measures size, whereas a biophysical profile assesses how well the baby is doing by looking at movement, heart rate, and other factors.
Growth scans are done externally, with the ultrasound probe on your belly.
No, growth scans do not change your estimated due date, but the results may influence decisions about the timing of delivery.
Growth scans are a valuable tool in pregnancy care, especially when there are concerns about your baby's growth or well-being. They offer important insights that can help your healthcare provider make informed decisions to support the best possible outcomes for you and your baby.
Remember, growth scans are not routine for every pregnancy but are recommended when medically indicated. If you have questions or feel unsure about whether you need a growth scan, talk openly with your provider. Your pregnancy care is a partnership, and your voice matters.
For those looking for expert ultrasound services, SonoCare Ultrasound provides all the pregnancy care services you need, including growth scans performed by skilled sonographers in a supportive environment. They are dedicated to helping you have a positive and informed pregnancy experience.
Taking the time to understand growth scans and their role in pregnancy care empowers you to make the best choices for your unique journey. Wishing you all the best as you prepare to welcome your little one!
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