Anomaly scan and growth scan are important pregnancy ultrasound scans done at different stages to check different aspects of the baby’s health. Anomaly scan checks the baby’s organs and physical structure, while growth scan monitors baby weight, development, placenta health, and amniotic fluid later in pregnancy. Choosing the right scan at the right time helps doctors monitor pregnancy more accurately. Read on to know the main differences, timing, cost, and purpose of each scan.
Anomaly Scan vs Growth Scan: Main Differences
Both scans are important during pregnancy, but they are done for different medical reasons. One focuses on the baby’s physical structure, while the other monitors growth, wellbeing, and development during later pregnancy stages.
Timing of the Scan
Anomaly scan or Level II scan is usually done between 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy. Growth scan is commonly performed between 24 to 28 weeks, and additional scans may be advised later in high risk or twin pregnancies.
Purpose of Each Scan
Anomaly scan checks the baby’s structural development and looks for visible abnormalities. Growth scan monitors fetal growth, estimated baby weight, placenta health, baby position, and amniotic fluid levels during later pregnancy stages.
What the Doctor Checks
During an anomaly scan, doctors check the brain, spine, heart, kidneys, stomach, face, arms, and legs. Growth scan checks fetal weight, growth measurements, blood flow, placenta position, and may include Doppler Ultrasound if required.
Cost in UAE
Anomaly Scan or Level II Scan usually costs around 600 AED in Dubai. Growth Scan generally costs around 600 AED depending on the hospital, clinic, technology used, and doctor expertise.
Accuracy and Limitations
Ultrasound scans cannot detect every medical condition. Baby position, maternal body structure, low fluid levels, or movement during the scan can affect visibility. Some pregnancies may require repeat scans, genetic tests, or additional monitoring.
Feature | Anomaly Scan | Growth Scan |
Trimester | Second trimester | Second to third trimester |
Main Goal | Detect structural abnormalities | Monitor baby growth |
Timing | 18 to 22 weeks | 24 to 28 weeks |
Duration | Longer detailed scan | Shorter follow up scan |
Checks | Organs and anatomy | Weight and development |
Which Is More Important: Anomaly Scan or Growth Scan?
Both scans play different roles during pregnancy care. One checks whether the baby’s organs are developing properly, while the other checks whether the baby continues to grow safely during later pregnancy stages.
Why Both Scans Are Recommended
Different stages: Anomaly scan checks structural development during mid pregnancy, while growth scan monitors baby growth later. Both scans help doctors follow fetal health more accurately throughout pregnancy.
Can a Growth Scan Replace an Anomaly Scan?
No. A growth scan cannot replace an anomaly scan because structural abnormalities are best checked between 18 and 22 weeks. Growth scans mainly focus on size, weight, placenta condition, and fetal wellbeing rather than detailed organ assessment.
What Happens If a Scan Shows a Concern?
Further evaluation: Doctors may advise repeat ultrasound scans, fetal medicine consultation, genetic testing, blood tests, or closer pregnancy monitoring depending on the findings and pregnancy risk factors.
How to Find Which Scan Do You Need
The scan you need depends mainly on your pregnancy stage and medical condition. If you are between 18 and 22 weeks, doctors usually recommend an anomaly scan to check the baby’s organs and structure. If you are later in pregnancy, especially after 24 weeks, a growth scan may be advised to monitor fetal weight, placenta health, and fluid levels. Women with diabetes, high blood pressure, twin pregnancy, or previous complications may need additional growth scans.
Where to Get Anomaly and Growth Scan in Dubai
Pregnancy ultrasound scans should always be done at licensed diagnostic centers or hospitals with experienced radiologists and fetal medicine specialists. Good scan quality helps doctors assess the baby more accurately during pregnancy.
Factors to consider before choosing a scan center:
- DHA licensed radiologists and specialists
- Advanced ultrasound technology
- Experience in fetal anomaly scans
- Availability of Doppler ultrasound
- Pregnancy focused diagnostic team
- Clear reporting and follow up support
- Transparent pricing in AED
- Good patient reviews and reputation
Choosing the Right Pregnancy Scan
Both Anomaly Scan and Growth Scan are important parts of pregnancy care. An anomaly scan helps doctors identify structural abnormalities during the second trimester, while a growth scan monitors the baby’s growth and wellbeing during later pregnancy weeks. Doing the right scan at the right time helps doctors monitor pregnancy more effectively and supports safer care for both mother and baby.
Trusted Pregnancy Ultrasound Scans in Dubai
For reliable pregnancy ultrasound scans in Dubai, MVR provides advanced diagnostic care with modern imaging technology and experienced radiologists. From anomaly scans to growth scans, every test is performed with focus on accuracy, patient comfort, and detailed fetal assessment. MVR offers affordable pregnancy scan packages designed for routine monitoring and high risk pregnancy care. With skilled medical professionals and quality diagnostic support, expect safe, smooth, and dependable scanning services throughout your pregnancy journey.
FAQs
Is the anomaly scan painful?
No. An anomaly scan is a painless ultrasound procedure. You may only feel slight pressure from the ultrasound probe during the scan.
How long does an anomaly scan take?
An anomaly scan usually takes around 20 to 45 minutes depending on the baby’s position and visibility during the ultrasound.
Do all pregnant women need a growth scan?
Growth scans are commonly advised, but not always mandatory in low risk pregnancies. High risk pregnancies may require multiple growth scans.
Which scan checks baby weight?
Growth Scan checks baby weight, growth measurements, and overall fetal development during later pregnancy.
Can anomaly scan detect all birth defects?
No. Anomaly scans can detect many structural abnormalities, but not every birth defect or genetic condition can be identified through ultrasound.
Is fasting required before these scans?
Usually, fasting is not required before anomaly scan or growth scan appointments unless your doctor gives specific instructions.
Can I do anomaly and growth scan in the same month?
Yes. This may happen in late pregnancy referrals, high risk pregnancies, or when doctors require additional fetal monitoring.
What is the difference between anomaly scan and 4D scan?
Anomaly scan is a medical scan used to check fetal organs and abnormalities. A 4D scan mainly provides clearer baby images and bonding experience for parents.
