Your Guide to the 20-Week Anatomy Scan: What to Expect & How to Prepare
The 20-week anatomy scan is one of the most exciting milestones in your pregnancy journey. Often referred to as the "big ultrasound," this scan provides a detailed look at your baby’s development and is a crucial part of prenatal care. At District Birth, we believe in empowering families with knowledge, confidence, and support every step of the way. In this blog, we’ll guide you through what to expect during your anatomy scan, the questions you might want to ask, and how District Birth can support you before, during, and after this important appointment!
What Is the 20-Week Anatomy Scan?
The anatomy scan is a detailed ultrasound typically performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. During this appointment, your healthcare provider will check:
Your baby’s growth: Measuring head circumference, abdomen size, and femur length.
Organ development: Examining the heart, brain, kidneys, stomach, bladder, and more to ensure they are developing as expected.
Placenta health: Checking the location and function of the placenta.
Amniotic fluid levels: Ensuring the fluid levels are within a healthy range.
Umbilical cord: Confirming the cord has the correct number of blood vessels.
Gender identification: If you wish to know, this is often the time when parents can find out their baby’s sex.
This scan can take up to an hour, depending on how cooperative your baby is with their positioning. Sometimes you may have to come back for a subsequent scan if your baby is particularly shy. :)
How to Prepare for the Anatomy Scan
Here are some simple tips to help you prepare:
Drink water beforehand: A full bladder can help improve ultrasound images early in pregnancy, but check with your provider if this is still necessary at 20 weeks.
Bring your support person: Whether it’s your partner, a friend, or another loved one, having someone there can make the experience more memorable.
Write down your questions: It’s easy to forget what you wanted to ask in the moment. Make a list to stay organized.
Set realistic expectations: The scan is primarily a medical examination, so while it’s exciting to see your baby, the primary focus is on their health and development.
Questions to Ask During the Scan
Is my baby measuring on track?
Are there any concerns about the development of the organs?
How is my placenta positioned?
What are the amniotic fluid levels?
Can I have a copy of the ultrasound images?
Do you see anything that might impact my delivery plan?
If we don’t find out the baby’s sex today, will there be another chance later?
What Happens if Something Unexpected Is Found?
While most anatomy scans confirm that everything is progressing normally, sometimes unexpected findings may arise. If this happens:
Your provider may refer you to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist for further evaluation.
You’ll have the opportunity to ask detailed questions and discuss next steps.
District Birth is here to support you with education, resources, and advocacy to navigate this journey with confidence.
How District Birth Supports You
At District Birth, we know the anatomy scan is more than just a medical appointment—it’s an emotional and transformative experience. Here’s how we support you:
Birth & Beyond Planning Sessions: Whether you’re looking to prepare questions for your provider or need help processing the scan results, our virtual or in-person sessions provide tailored support and expert guidance.
Childbirth Education Classes: Gain a deeper understanding of prenatal care and how this scan fits into your journey toward a confident birth experience.
Doula Services: From pregnancy to postpartum, we offer continuous support, advocacy, and reassurance to help you navigate all stages of parenthood.
Community & Resources: Join a network of families who share your journey and access curated tools, from meditations to affirmations, that bring peace and empowerment to your experience.
