Why a Growth Scan is Important During Pregnancy | Pearl Diagnostics
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with excitement, love, and care. Every expecting parent wishes to ensure their baby is healthy and developing properly. To monitor this, regular check-ups and ultrasound scans are very important. One such important test is the growth scan, which helps doctors assess how well your baby is growing inside the womb.
What is a Growth Scan?
A growth scan, also known as a fetal growth scan, is usually done between 28 to 32 weeks of pregnancy. It is a type of ultrasound test that measures the baby’s size, weight, and overall development.
The scan helps doctors check:
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How the baby is growing compared to the expected gestational age
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The position of the placenta
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The amount of amniotic fluid
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The baby’s heartbeat and movement
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Blood flow through the umbilical cord
It’s a completely safe, painless, and non-invasive test that gives both parents and doctors a clear picture of the baby’s well-being.
Why a Growth Scan is Important During Pregnancy
Here are some reasons why doctors recommend a growth scan in the third trimester:
1. Checks Baby’s Growth and Development
The scan measures the baby’s head circumference, abdomen, and thigh bone length. These details help the doctor confirm if your baby is growing normally according to your pregnancy stage.
2. Monitors Placenta and Amniotic Fluid Levels
The placenta provides oxygen and nutrients to your baby. The scan checks its position and condition, along with the amniotic fluid levels — both essential for the baby’s comfort and safety.
3. Detects Growth-Related Problems Early
Sometimes, the baby may not be growing as expected due to conditions like Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR) or Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR). Detecting these early allows your doctor to plan suitable care to support your baby’s health.
4. Assesses Blood Flow and Oxygen Supply
Using a Doppler ultrasound, doctors can evaluate the blood flow between the placenta and the baby. It ensures the baby is receiving enough oxygen and nutrients for healthy development.
5. Helpful in High-Risk Pregnancies
Women with high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems, or multiple pregnancies are advised to get more frequent growth scans. These scans help doctors track the baby’s progress and make necessary adjustments in care.
6. Guides Delivery Decisions
A growth scan provides an estimate of the baby’s weight and position inside the womb. This helps doctors plan for a safe and smooth delivery, whether natural or by C-section.
What to Expect During a Growth Scan
The scan is simple and comfortable. You’ll be asked to lie down, and a clear gel will be applied to your abdomen. A small probe is moved over the area to capture images of your baby on the screen.
The entire procedure usually takes 15–20 minutes, and you can see your baby’s movements in real-time. Most parents find it a joyful and emotional experience.
Benefits of a Growth Scan
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Monitors your baby’s growth and health
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Ensures the placenta and fluid levels are normal
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Detects complications early
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Provides reassurance about your baby’s well-being
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Helps plan delivery safely
Having this scan done by an experienced radiologist using advanced ultrasound machines ensures reliable results and peace of mind during pregnancy.
When and Where to Get a Growth Scan
Most doctors recommend having the growth scan in the third trimester, around the 28th to 32nd week. It may also be repeated later if required.
For expecting mothers in Pimple Saudagar and nearby areas, Pearl Diagnostics offers comprehensive ultrasound and pregnancy scan services in a comfortable and caring environment. Our expert radiologist ensures accurate results with modern technology and personal attention.
Conclusion
A growth scan is one of the most valuable tests during pregnancy. It helps monitor your baby’s progress, detects possible issues early, and ensures you and your doctor have all the information needed for a safe and healthy delivery.
Regular ultrasound check-ups during pregnancy are not just medical tests—they are moments of connection between parents and their baby. Choosing a reliable diagnostic center ensures those moments are filled with confidence, care, and joy.
