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Pregnancy brings many exciting milestones. Specifically, your 12-week and 20-week scans stand out the most. You finally get to see your growing baby! However, many expectant mothers wonder about the differences between them.
At Athena Women’s Clinic in Bentley, we understand your curiosity. We want to ease your mind completely. Therefore, we created this simple guide. Read on to discover exactly what our sonographers look for during these vital pregnancy ultrasounds in Perth.
Doctors usually schedule this scan between 11 and 13 weeks. We often call it the Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan. This early appointment offers enormous reassurance. First, we confirm your baby’s heartbeat. Next, we check their early physical development.
What do our sonographers actually look for?
Chromosomal Screening: We gently measure the fluid at the back of your baby’s neck. This helps assess the risk of conditions like Down syndrome.
Early Anatomy: We check the brain, limbs, and abdominal wall. Your baby looks like a fully formed miniature human now!
Placenta and Due Date: We locate the developing placenta. Furthermore, we confirm your official due date using precise measurements.
We usually perform this detailed scan between 18 and 22 weeks. People often call this the “morphology scan.” This is a comprehensive, head-to-toe check. Your baby has grown significantly by now. Consequently, we can see tiny details very clearly.
What do our sonographers focus on at 20 weeks?
Detailed Anatomy: We carefully examine the heart chambers, brain structures, kidneys, and spine.
Growth and Fluid: We measure your baby’s head, abdomen, and thigh bone. Additionally, we check the exact volume of amniotic fluid around them.
Placenta Position: We check if the placenta sits safely away from your cervix. This ensures a clear path for delivery.
Gender Reveal: Do you want to know the sex of your baby? Our sonographers can usually tell you at this stage! Just let us know your preference before we begin.
Do you have a referral for your 12-week or 20-week scan? Our state-of-the-art imaging suite in Bentley eagerly awaits you. We offer comfortable, GP-led care with highly experienced female sonographers.
Secure Your Appointment Today We happily accept all valid referrals from any clinic. We provide the reassurance and expertise you deserve during this special time.
Call us on (08) 6116 1285 today. You can also use our secure online booking system to schedule your scan instantly. Contact Us for more information.
Preparation changes slightly between these two appointments. Specifically, your bladder requirements differ.
For the 12-week scan: You need a very full bladder. Therefore, drink two large glasses of water an hour before your appointment. Do not empty your bladder. The water lifts your uterus for a perfect view.
For the 20-week scan: Your baby takes up much more space now. As a result, you only need a moderately full bladder. Drink just one glass of water before you arrive.
Always wear comfortable two-piece clothing to your appointments. We simply need easy access to your tummy.
We are thrilled to announce that our state-of-the-art imaging suite is opening very soon at Athena Women’s Clinic in Bentley. Whether you need a pregnancy ultrasound or a pelvic scan, you will soon have access to comfortable, GP-led care right here in our clinic.
If you have a referral or anticipate needing an ultrasound in Perth, reach out to our team now Or Call us at (08) 6116 1285