Between the anomaly scan and delivery, the growth and well-being of the fetus can be monitored by ultrasound. The checks carried out will:
confirm that the fetus is in the cephalic (head down) position
assess the size of the fetus by measuring the head, abdomen and thigh bone, comparing the results with normal growth curves.
estimate the current weight
ensure that there is a normal quantity of amniotic fluid around the fetus.
confirm that the placenta is in a normal position and is not covering the cervix
exclude any late developing abnormalities
If there are any indications, we will proceed with Doppler studies to ensure that there is normal blood flow to and from the fetus.
These scans are useful for women who have previously delivered a large or small baby, who have had any complications during a previous pregnancy or who simply want reassurance that all is progressing normally.