Introduction
Pregnancy is a moment of happiness, anticipation, and important choices. One of the foremost steps towards ensuring the health and safety of the mother and the fetus is to go for timely ultrasound scans. The scans are extremely important in tracking the growth of the baby, detecting any possible issues early, and making preparations for a safe delivery.
For new mothers, it can be overwhelming to know what scans need to be done and when to undergo them. By breaking down the pregnancy scan list into simple terms, this guide explains the significance, process, and goal of each scan trimester.
What Are Pregnancy Scans?
Pregnancy scans use ultrasound technology, which produces images of the foetus inside the womb using high-frequency sound waves. Pregnancy scans are completely safe, painless, and non-invasive for both the baby and the mother. At Clarity Imaging, all scans are conducted using advanced ultrasound equipment handled by certified professionals.
Pregnancy ultrasounds come in a variety of forms, each with a distinct function. Some confirm the pregnancy, while others follow up on growth, screen organ development, or examine the position of the baby before birth. The number and frequency of scans can vary based on the mother’s health and whether or not the pregnancy is high-risk.
First Trimester: Early Checks and Confirmation
Checking for pregnancy and viability and setting up a baseline for regular monitoring are the main goals of the first trimester, which lasts from weeks 1 to 12.
1. Dating Scan (Around 6–9 Weeks)
It is also referred to as an early pregnancy scan, this is the most likely first ultrasound conducted during pregnancy.
Purpose:
- Confirm the pregnancy and heartbeat
- Detect if it’s a single or multiple pregnancy
- Estimate the due date
- Eliminate complications such as ectopic pregnancy
This scan is mostly useful for women with abnormal menstrual cycles or previous pregnancy loss.
2. NT Scan (Nuchal Translucency Scan) – 11 to 14 Weeks
To look for chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome, an NT scan of the fluid at the baby’s neck is performed.
Purpose:
- Detect the risk of genetic conditions
- Examine nasal bone growth and general early development
- Schedule further tests if results show higher risk
A blood test is normally taken in addition with the NT scan to obtain an accurate measure.
Second Trimester: Detailed Structural Evaluation
The organs and tissues of the baby develop very fast between week 13 and week 27. In this trimester, a number of the most significant pregnancy scans are conducted.
3. Anomaly Scan (18–22 Weeks)
The fifth month pregnancy scan or ultrasound scans the structure of the baby and detects abnormalities.
Purpose:
- Identify brain, heart, spine, kidneys, and limbs
- Check amniotic fluid level and placenta position
- Detect birth defects or developmental problems
This scan is essential for making arrangements for further care and interventions if required.
4. Growth Scan (24–28 Weeks)
The 6th month scan checks up on the baby’s growth and sees to it that everything is developing as it should.
Purpose:
- Measure the baby’s size, weight, and growth rate
- Assess blood flow through the umbilical cord
- Detect signs of growth restriction or complications like gestational diabetes effects
More frequent growth scans may be advised by doctors for women with diabetes, hypertension, or other risk factors.
Third Trimester: Preparing for Birth
The last trimester, between week 28 and birth, makes sure the baby is ready for birth and there are no last-minute issues.
5. 7th Month Pregnancy Scan (30–32 Weeks)
This scan informs everything about the position of the baby and the overall well-being of the baby.
Purpose:
- Confirm whether the baby is in a head-down position
- Identify late-stage growth
- Monitor placenta function and blood circulation
6. 8th Month Pregnancy Scan (34–36 Weeks)
Also referred to as the final growth scan, this scan is essential for labour and delivery planning.
Purpose:
- Detect the baby’s head position for normal delivery
- Check amniotic fluid levels
- Determine any cord problems or complications.
7. 9th Month Pregnancy Scan (37–40 Weeks)
This scan is usually called the final pregnancy scan. It assists physicians in making final delivery plans.
Purpose:
- Analyze the baby’s heartbeat and oxygen supply
- Evaluate readiness for labor
- Plan induction or cesarean if necessary
Pregnancy Scan Week by Week
| Pregnancy Month | Recommended Scan Name | Approximate Week |
| 1st Month | Dating Scan | 6–9 Weeks |
| 3rd Month | NT Scan | 11–14 Weeks |
| 5th Month | Anomaly Scan | 18–22 Weeks |
| 6th Month | Growth Scan | 24–28 Weeks |
| 7th Month | Position & Growth Scan | 30–32 Weeks |
| 8th Month | Final Growth & Placenta Scan | 34–36 Weeks |
| 9th Month | Delivery Preparation Scan | 37–40 Weeks |
Pregnancy Scan Cost in India
The pregnancy scan price for individualised care tailored to your pregnancy, always asking your doctor when and if each scan is necessary depends on the type of scan and location.
- Basic scans like dating or growth scans: ₹800 – ₹2,000
- Detailed scans like anomaly scans: ₹2,500 – ₹5,000
- Specialized Doppler or 4D scans: ₹3,000 – ₹6,000
For accurate and safe results, it is essential to visit a certified ultrasound scan centre in Coimbatore or your local trusted diagnostic facility.
Final Thoughts
Regular scans give reassurance and ensure a safe pregnancy path. Following the checklist of scans throughout pregnancy, pregnant women can remain aware and take initiative towards their baby’s well-being. For individualised care tailored to your pregnancy, always ask your doctor when and if each scan is necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many scans during pregnancy?
On average, a healthy pregnancy requires 5 to 7 scans. However, if there are complications or high-risk factors, the doctor may recommend additional scans.
2. Types of sonography in pregnancy?
These include 2D ultrasound, 3D ultrasound, 4D ultrasound, and Doppler scans. Each type serves a unique purpose, from basic imaging to real-time movement tracking and blood flow assessment.
3. When to do sonography in pregnancy?
The first scan is usually done between 6 and 9 weeks. Subsequent scans are scheduled throughout each trimester based on fetal development and the mother’s health.
4. Difference between NT scan and anomaly scan?
The NT scan screens for chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome, while the anomaly scan detects structural abnormalities in the baby’s organs.
5. After an anomaly scan, when is the next scan?
Typically, the next scan is a growth scan done between 24 and 28 weeks.
6. Difference between obstetric scan and anomaly scan?
An obstetric scan is a general pregnancy scan used to monitor growth and well-being, whereas an anomaly scan is a detailed examination focusing on detecting physical abnormalities.
7. How many ultrasounds in pregnancy in India?
In India, most women undergo around 6 to 8 ultrasounds throughout pregnancy, depending on the doctor’s recommendations.
8. Types of USG in pregnancy?
- Standard 2D ultrasound
- Doppler ultrasound for blood flow
- 3D ultrasound for detailed structures
- 4D ultrasound for live motion view
9. When is the first scan done in pregnancy?
Usually around 6 to 9 weeks to confirm the heartbeat and rule out complications.
10. When should sonography be done in pregnancy?
Scans are scheduled at key milestones: early pregnancy, 11–14 weeks, 18–22 weeks, 24–28 weeks, 30–32 weeks, 34–36 weeks, and 37–40 weeks.
11. When should ultrasound be done in pregnancy?
It’s best to follow the trimester-based schedule recommended by your doctor to ensure timely monitoring.
12. Which week is best for anomaly scan?
The ideal period is between 18 and 22 weeks for the most accurate detection of developmental concerns.
