What Is a Level II Anomaly Scan and Why Is It Crucial at 20 Weeks?
The journey of pregnancy is marked by several milestones, but few are as significant as the 20 week anatomy scan. Often referred to by doctors as the Level II Anomaly Scan, this detailed ultrasound serves as a comprehensive “health check” for your developing baby.
If you are currently 20 weeks pregnant, you might be wondering: What happens at a 20 week anatomy scan, and why is it labeled “Level II”? Under the expert guidance of Dr. Deepti Mittal, a leading Fetal Medicine Specialist in Pune, we delve into everything you need to expect during this vital second-trimester milestone.
What Is a Level II Anatomy Scan in Pregnancy?
A Level II Anatomy Scan is a specialized, high-resolution pregnancy ultrasound at 20 weeks that goes far beyond a standard check-up. While early scans confirm pregnancy and heartbeats, the anatomic ultrasound performed between 18 and 22 weeks focuses on the structural development of the fetus.
As a Fetal Medicine Consultant in Pune, Dr. Deepti Mittal uses this scan to evaluate the baby’s organs, limbs, and overall growth. It is often called a morphology scan because it studies the “morphology” or form of the baby from head to toe.
Why Is the 20 Week Anatomy Scan So Important?
The 20 week ultrasound is crucial because it occurs at a window where the baby is large enough for detailed visualization but has enough surrounding amniotic fluid for clear ultrasound photos.
Key reasons why this scan is vital:
- Organ Screening: It assesses the brain, heart, kidneys, and spine.
- Placental Health: Checks the position of the placenta (to rule out placenta previa).
- Early Detection: Identifies soft markers for conditions like Down Syndrome.
- Growth Tracking: Measures the size of 20 week fetus to ensure it aligns with the due date.
What Does a Level II Anatomy Scan Check For?
During a Level II Anomaly Scan, the sonographer or fetal medicine doctor performs a fetal anatomy survey. This includes:
- The Brain & Skull: Checking for structures like the cerebellum and ventricles.
- The Face: Looking for a cleft lip or palate through a 20 week ultrasound profile.
- The Spine: Ensuring the vertebrae are aligned and the skin covers the spine (ruling out Spina Bifida).
- The Heart: Evaluating the four chambers and major arteries (the most complex part of the fetal anatomical survey).
- Limbs: Counting fingers, toes, and measuring the femur (thigh bone).
- Abdomen: Checking the stomach, bladder, and kidneys.
What Happens During a 20 Week Anatomy Scan?
When you arrive for your sonogram at 20 weeks, you will lie down as a cool gel is applied to your abdomen. The doctor will move a transducer over your belly to capture 20 week ultrasound pictures.
How long does an anatomy scan take? Usually, an anatomy scan takes between 30 to 45 minutes. However, if the baby is in a “difficult” position, it might take longer. Dr. Deepti Mittal emphasizes patience; the goal is a normal anomaly scan report at 20 weeks, which requires capturing every specific angle of the baby’s anatomy.
Is the 20 Week Anatomy Scan 2D, 3D, or 4D?
Most diagnostic work is done using 2D ultrasound because it provides the clearest “see-through” view of internal organs. However, many parents look forward to a 3d sonogram at 20 weeks or a 20 week 4d ultrasound.
- 2D Scan: Best for medical diagnosis of internal structures.
- 3D Scan: Provides a static, life-like image of the baby’s face.
- 4D Scan: Shows live motion (like the baby yawning or sucking a thumb).
In Dr. Mittal’s clinic, a 20 week anatomy scan 3d view is often used to supplement the medical report, giving parents a precious first “photo” of their child.
How to Prepare for a Level II Anatomy Scan?
To ensure the best results for your ultrasound week 22 or 20, follow these simple tips:
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to the appointment.
- Full Bladder? Ask your clinic. Often, a 20 week scan do you need a full bladder is a “yes” to help lift the uterus for better visibility.
- Glucose: Having a light snack or juice before the scan can make the fetus at 20 weeks more active, helping the doctor see all angles.
- Clothing: Wear a two-piece outfit for easy access to your abdomen.
Understanding the Level II Anatomy Scan Report:
After the procedure, you will receive a fetal anatomy scan report. A normal 20 week ultrasound report will indicate that all “visualized structures appear within normal limits.”
If an abnormal 20 week scan occurs, it does not always mean there is a problem. Sometimes, it simply means a follow-up pregnancy ultrasound 24 weeks later is needed because the baby’s position blocked a specific view. As a Fetal Medicine Doctor in Pune, Dr. Deepti Mittal provides compassionate counseling to explain these findings clearly.
Level II Anatomy Scan vs Anomaly Scan – Is There a Difference?
Strictly speaking, they are the same. Both terms refer to the second trimester anatomy scan. However, “Level II” implies a higher degree of detail and is typically performed by a Fetal Medicine Specialist rather than a general radiologist. This is especially important for Advanced Maternal Age (35+) pregnancies.
Expert Care with Dr. Deepti Mittal in Pune:
When it comes to your 20 week anomaly scan, the expertise of the person holding the probe matters. Dr. Deepti Mittal (MBBS, MD – AIIMS, FMF-UK Certified) is a premier Fetal Medicine Specialist in Kharadi, Pune. With over 12+ years of experience, she treats the unborn baby as a patient, ensuring that every 20 week ultrasound anatomy scan is performed with clinical precision and parent-centered care.
If you are looking for the best Anomaly Scan in Pune near Kharadi, Magarpatta, or Pimpri-Chinchwad, Dr. Mittal provides evidence-based diagnostics at Motherhood Hospital and Cloudnine Hospital.
Why You Should Not Skip the 20 Week Anatomy Scan?
The 20 week anatomy scan is your greatest tool for peace of mind. It allows for the early detection of treatable conditions and ensures your pregnancy remains on a healthy track. Don’t leave your baby’s health to chance—ensure your scan is performed by a specialist.
Are you question about Anomoly Scan? schedule your 20 week Level II Anatomy Scan with Dr. Deepti Mittal? Contact us today at +91 93113 13022 to book your appointment.