What is typically assessed during a 20-week anatomy scan?

The 20-week anatomy scan, also known as the mid-pregnancy ultrasound, is a critical assessment tool used to evaluate fetal growth and organ development. At this stage of pregnancy, healthcare providers conduct a detailed examination of the fetus to ensure that all anatomical structures are forming correctly and to assess overall growth.

During this ultrasound, key aspects of the fetus are measured, including the size of the head, abdomen, and femur, which helps in estimating gestational age and fetal growth patterns. Additionally, the scan allows for a thorough examination of the internal organs, such as the heart, kidneys, brain, and spine, to check for any congenital anomalies or developmental issues.

While other factors such as fetal position may be noted during the scan, it is primarily focused on the anatomical development of the fetus rather than predicting the delivery date or assessing maternal nutrient absorption or emotional health. Hence, recognizing organ development and fetal growth during this scan is vital for monitoring the health of both the mother and the fetus as pregnancy progresses.