Growth Scan

Peace of mind for expectant mothers. This scan performed during the third trimester of pregnancy, typically between 24 and 36 weeks. Its primary purpose is to assess the growth and development of your baby, ensuring they are on track for a healthy birth.

Why Choose a Growth Scan?

  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that your baby is growing appropriately can provide significant reassurance.

  • Early Detection: If there are any growth issues, early detection allows for timely intervention and management.

  • Personalised Care: Our sonographers will provide detailed insights into your baby's development, answering any questions you may have.

Medical examination room with ultrasound machine, exam bed, chairs, and colorful wall.

What Do You Get With Your Growth Scan With Imaginatal?

  • 20-minute appointment

  • A qualified and HCPC registered sonographer

  • Measurements: We measure your baby's head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length to estimate their weight and growth percentile.

  • Wellbeing Check: We assess the baby's movement, heart rate, and the amount of amniotic fluid to ensure overall health.

  • Images: You will receive 2 by 2D black and white images of your baby, and all digital images will be emailed to you after the scan.

  • A scan report

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Illustration of two purple baby footprints
Medical ultrasound machine with control panel, screen, and keyboard in a clinical setting.

How to prepare for your Growth Scan?

Wear a two-piece outfit: You’ll need to undress from the waist down for the scan, so it’s best to wear a two-piece outfit like a top and trousers or a top and skirt. This will make it easier for you to get ready for the scan.

Empty your bladder: You’ll need to have an empty bladder for the scan, so be sure to use the restroom before your appointment.

Take any medication as usual: You can continue taking your regular medication before the scan.

Relax: Just relax and let our expert sonographers guide you through the process.

Your Growth Scan Appointment: What To Expect

  • You will be greeted by one of our friendly receptionists.

  • ​​You will be asked to fill in our consent form and will be given a copy of our Terms and Conditions.

  • We will also ask for some extra details about your pregnancy to ensure our sonographer and team are completely informed about the reason for your visit.

  • You and your family can then just relax before going into the scan room.

  • Your scan will be conducted by one of our expert sonographers.

  • After your scan you can choose any images you would like us to print for you.

Ultrasound machine control panel with buttons and display screen

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Your doctor or midwives may recommend a growth scan if there are concerns about your baby's growth based on your medical history, physical examinations, or other risk factors. This scan helps ensure that your baby is growing appropriately for their gestational age.

  • During the growth scan, the sonographer measures your baby's head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length. These measurements help estimate your baby's weight and assess their growth percentile, ensuring they are developing appropriately.

  • If the scan shows that your baby is not growing properly we will detail this in our report and refer you to your GP or healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will then discuss the findings with you and may recommend additional tests or monitoring. They will work with you to develop a plan to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.

  • The growth scan is generally not painful. You may feel some pressure or discomfort as the sonographer moves the ultrasound probe over your abdomen, but it should not be painful. If you have any concerns, please inform the sonographer.

  • Yes, you are welcome to bring your partner or a support person to the scan. Children are allowed too.

  • The estimated weight from a growth scan is generally accurate within a range of approximately ±10% to 25%. This means that the actual birth weight could be higher or lower than the estimated weight. The accuracy can improve as the pregnancy progresses, but it's still an estimation.

  • Yes, several factors can affect the accuracy of the scan, including:

    • The baby's position (if they are moving a lot or in an awkward position)

    • Maternal weight (excessive abdominal fat can make it harder to get clear images)

    • The amount of amniotic fluid (too much or too little can affect measurements)

    • The stage of pregnancy (accuracy can vary at different weeks)
      Your sonographer is trained to handle these situations and will do their best to obtain accurate measurements.

  • If you have any questions or concerns about your scan results, please contact our clinic at info@imaginatal.co.uk or call 0800 640 4299. Our team is here to help and provide any additional information you may need.

  • Yes, ultrasound scans are considered safe during pregnancy. They use sound waves, not radiation, and there are no known risks to the mother or the baby from this type of scan.

Hear From Our Expectant Mothers

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Growth scans provide peace of mind during your pregnancy. Speak to Imaginatal now about booking your appointment.