Growth Scan: Monitoring Fetal Growth and Development
The Growth Scan is a prenatal ultrasound performed during the second or third trimester to monitor the baby’s growth, weight, and overall development. It is especially useful for pregnancies that require close observation, such as those with maternal health conditions or previous complications.
What Is a Growth Scan?
A Growth Scan evaluates:
- Fetal size and estimated weight
- Head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length
- Placental position and function
- Amniotic fluid volume
- Fetal movements and position
This scan ensures that your baby is growing proportionately and that the pregnancy is progressing normally.
Why Is a Growth Scan Important?
1. Monitoring Fetal Growth
It helps identify if the baby is growing too slowly (IUGR) or too quickly (macrosomia), which may require additional care or early delivery planning.
2. Assessing Placental Function
The placenta supplies oxygen and nutrients to the baby. The scan evaluates its health to ensure proper fetal development.
3. Managing Maternal Conditions
Mothers with gestational diabetes, hypertension, or previous growth-restricted pregnancies benefit from growth scans to prevent complications.
4. Planning for Delivery
By assessing fetal size and position, doctors can make informed decisions about timing and mode of delivery.
When Is a Growth Scan Done?
- Typically during the third trimester, between 28–36 weeks
- May be done earlier if there are concerns about fetal growth or maternal health
- Repeated scans may be recommended in high-risk pregnancies
How Is a Growth Scan Performed?
-
Conducted via abdominal ultrasound
-
Sonographer measures:
- Head circumference
- Abdominal circumference
- Femur length
- Estimated fetal weight
-
Placenta, amniotic fluid, and fetal position are also evaluated
-
Duration: Usually 20–30 minutes, depending on fetal position and clarity
Is a Growth Scan Safe?
Yes. The scan is non-invasive and uses ultrasound waves, making it completely safe for both mother and baby.
Who Should Get a Growth Scan?
- All pregnant women after 28 weeks (especially routine third trimester check-up)
- High-risk pregnancies: gestational diabetes, hypertension, previous growth-restricted babies
- Women with suspected small or large babies
- Pregnancies with placental issues or low amniotic fluid
FAQs – Growth Scan
What is the purpose of a Growth Scan?
To monitor fetal growth, weight, and development, ensuring the baby is growing proportionately and healthily.
Is the Growth Scan different from other ultrasounds?
Yes. While earlier scans focus on anatomy and organ development, the Growth Scan assesses size, weight, and well-being in the later stages of pregnancy.
Is the scan safe for the baby?
Yes. Ultrasound is non-invasive and safe for both mother and child.
Do I need to prepare for the scan?
A moderately full bladder may help improve imaging. Follow your doctor’s instructions.
How long does the scan take?
Approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on fetal position and visibility.
Will it detect all fetal problems?
It mainly assesses growth and development. Some abnormalities may require detailed anomaly or Level II scans.
How often is a Growth Scan needed?
Typically once in the third trimester for low-risk pregnancies. High-risk pregnancies may require multiple scans.
Can it predict the baby’s exact birth weight?
The scan estimates fetal weight, but exact birth weight may vary at delivery.
What happens if the baby is smaller or larger than expected?
Your doctor may recommend additional monitoring, nutrition adjustments, or delivery planning to ensure the baby’s safety.
Conclusion
The Growth Scan is an essential tool to track your baby’s size, weight, and development, ensuring a safe and healthy pregnancy. It helps doctors identify potential growth concerns early, plan for delivery, and provide peace of mind for parents.
For expert Growth Scans, visit: www.genesisshospital.com | www.drdivyagynecologist.com | www.drrajuuro.com
Dr. Divya J G Dr. Divya J G is an exceptional and highly skilled Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, recognised for her expertise in maternity care, pregnancy scans, and advanced gynaecological and laparoscopic surgeries. She completed her MBBS at Mysore Medical College and Research Institute (MMCRI) and earned her MS in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from Bangalore Medical College. With over 13 years of clinical experience, Dr. Divya J G is known for her meticulous attention to detail and patient-centred approach. She carefully understands each woman’s unique health needs and delivers personalised, evidence-based care to ensure safe pregnancies, effective treatments, and optimal outcomes.
Dr. Divya J G has extensive experience in managing a wide range of obstetric and gynaecological cases, including comprehensive maternity care, gynaecological surgeries, infertility evaluation, and IVF-related treatments. Beyond her clinical expertise, she is known for building strong trust and confidence among her patients through compassionate, patient-centred care and clear communication. From fertility counselling and conception planning to pregnancy, delivery, and post-treatment recovery, Dr. Divya J G ensures that every woman feels well-informed, supported, and at ease throughout her medical journey. Her commitment to ethical practice and evidence-based treatment consistently contributes to positive patient experiences and successful outcomes.
