20+ Week Scan Dublin
20 Week Scan (ideally 21 weeks)
20/21-22 Week Pregnancy Scan Costs
The 20 week pregnancy scan includes photographs and a computerised report. Your sonographer will answer any questions you may have.
At Merrion Ultrasound, we recommend 21 weeks for the best imagery for this stage of your pregnancy.
21 – 22 weeks – €200
What Is Involved?
The 20-week scan will: (21 weeks ideally)
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check your baby’s anatomy in detail (brain, face, spine, heart, abdomen, kidneys, limbs)
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take standard growth measurements (head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length)
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review the placenta, umbilical cord and amniotic fluid
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confirm your baby’s position and estimate weight
42″ Ultrasound Scan Screen
The ultrasound is available for you to view on a 42” screen, which is located on the wall at the end of the ultrasound couch. This allows you to view the images produced by the transducer.
Your sonographer will explain what you are looking at.
20 Week Scan in Pregnancy - What You Need to Know
A 20-week pregnancy scan is a diagnostic abdominal scan used to check for certain conditions in the unborn baby. The scan is usually carried out around the 20th week of pregnancy but may be done earlier if there is a concern about the baby’s health. This scan is also called an anatomy survey scan.
During the scan, the sonographer will check the baby’s anatomy and measure the size of the head, abdominal circumference, and femur (thigh bone). In some cases, a blood test may also be carried out to screen for specific conditions such as Down syndrome.
The 20-week scan is generally considered to be a routine part of prenatal care, but some parents opt to have it done for reasons other than medical necessity. Trimester screening tests are non-invasive tests that can identify whether an unborn baby has a higher risk of certain conditions, such as Down syndrome.
These tests are optional, and the decision to have one is a personal choice. Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to have a 20-week scan is one that every parent must make based on their individual circumstances.
How should I prepare for my 20-week ultrasound scan?
Pregnancy is an amazing time! There’s so much to learn and experience as your body changes and grows to accommodate your new little bundle of joy. One of the most exciting milestones during pregnancy is the 20-week ultrasound scan. This anatomy scan is a great way to check on your baby’s development and get a sneak peek at what they’ll look like when they’re born.
Here are a few things you can do to prepare for your 20-week ultrasound scan:
- First, make sure you drink plenty of water before your appointment. This will help ensure that the sonographer can get a clear view of your baby. The sonographers ask patients not to empty their bladders before their scan as it allows for better ultrasound images.
- Secondly, try to relax and take deep breaths. The more relaxed you are, the easier it will be for the sonographer to do their job.
- Lastly, be prepared to hear your baby’s heartbeat and see them moving around on the screen. It’s an amazing experience that you’ll never forget!
What role does amniotic fluid play in the 20-week scan?
Amniotic fluid is the protective liquid found around the baby in the womb. It helps to cushion and support the baby, as well as provide nutrients and oxygen. Amniotic fluid also plays an important role in the 20-week scan.
This is a routine ultrasound scan that is used to check for any abnormalities in the baby. One of the things that the sonographer will look at is the amniotic fluid volume. They will assess whether there is too much or too little fluid around the baby.
Too much amniotic fluid can sometimes indicate a problem with the pregnancy, while too little fluid can affect the baby’s growth and movement. Therefore, amniotic fluid is an important indicator of fetal health, and it plays a vital role in the 20-week scan.
What can you expect at the 20-week scan?
Having a 20-week scan is an exciting moment for any future mum. It’s a chance to see your baby for the first time and get a glimpse of what they’ll look like when they’re born. The scan will also give you important information about your baby’s development and check that they’re in the proper position.
During the scan, the sonographer will look at the placenta, which provides vital nutrients and oxygen to the baby. They’ll also check that the baby’s head is in the correct position and that its internal organs are developing normally. Finally, you’ll get to see your baby appear on the screen. They may be wriggling around, but it’s an amazing experience to see them for the first time.
What will be assessed in a 20-week scan?
Measurements :
Standard measurements are taken during ultrasound scans at 20 weeks to help diagnose certain conditions.
The standard measurements are:
– the biparietal diameter (BPD),
– the head circumference (HC),
– the abdominal circumference (AC), and
– the femur length (FL).
These measurements are used to calculate the baby’s estimated weight, which is important for prenatal diagnosis and Fetal medicine. The measurements are also used to assess the risk of certain conditions, such as Down syndrome.
Ultrasound scans at 20 weeks are usually routine and low-risk, but they can be stressful for some parents-to-be. It’s important to remember that most babies are born healthy and happy. If you’re concerned about your scan, speak to your midwife or GP. They will be able to put your mind at ease.
Blood flow in the umbilical cord (umbilical artery) :
The 20-week scan is a fetal medicine ultrasound that assesses the anatomy of the baby. It is also known as the mid-pregnancy or anomaly scan. The scan is usually done when the baby is between 18 and 21 weeks old.
During the scan, ultrasound waves are used to create moving images of your baby and the placenta. Ultrasound passes easily through your abdominal wall, so the cord and blood vessels can be seen clearly. The umbilical artery carries blood from the baby to the placenta.
The umbilical artery is important because it provides nutrients and oxygen to the baby. The 20-week scan is used to verify the blood flow in the umbilical cord. If there is a problem with the blood flow, it can be treated before the baby is born.
Baby’s rhythm and heart rate :
The 20-week scan is a key appointment in pregnancy. This is the halfway point in gestation, and it’s when the medical team can get a really good look at the baby. They will check the heart rate and rhythm, and examine the structure of the brain, spine, kidneys and abdominal organs.
In the vast majority of cases, everything is absolutely fine. But if there is an abnormality, it can often be picked up at this stage. The 20-week scan is therefore a vital part of the examination process during pregnancy.
The baby’s position :
At the 20-week mark, your baby will have a detailed anatomy scan to check for any birth defects or chromosomal abnormalities. This is also when you’ll be able to find out the sex of your baby. The ultrasound tech will take measurements of your baby’s head, abdomen, and femur (thigh bone) to ensure that they’re developing properly.
They will also check the position of your baby’s placenta and amniotic fluid levels. All of this information helps to ensure that your baby is healthy and on track for a full-term delivery. If anything appears to be abnormal, you may be referred for further testing or monitoring.
While most birth defects can’t be treated before birth, knowing about them in advance can help you prepare for what’s to come. In some cases, early intervention can make all the difference in the world. So don’t hesitate to ask questions and get as much information as you can at your 20-week scan.
The anatomy of the baby:
The 20-week scan is a routine ultrasound examination performed on pregnant women to verify the anatomy of the baby. The scan is usually performed with the expectant mother lying on her back with a full bladder, as this helps detect the baby more easily.
During the scan, the sonographer will use ultrasound to determine the baby’s size and position, as well as to assess the development of the brain, heart, and other organs. In addition, the sex of the baby can often be determined at this stage.
The 20-week scan is an important milestone in pregnancy, and it can offer valuable information about the health of both the mother and the baby.
20 Week Pregnancy Scans FAQs
What is an anatomy scan?
An anatomy scan is a detailed mid-pregnancy ultrasound that checks your baby’s organs, growth, placenta, umbilical cord and amniotic fluid.
When is the anatomy scan?
The anatomy scan is usually performed between 21 and 22 weeks and is considered a Level II (detailed) ultrasound.
What to expect
Your sonographer will take a series of measurements to check that your baby is growing as expected and to assess key structures.
Finding out the baby’s sex
If you’d like to know, the sonographer can often determine the baby’s sex at this scan. This isn’t guaranteed—it depends on the baby’s position and the clarity of the image on the day.
How long does it take for an anatomy scan?
An anatomy scan usually takes 30–45 minutes, depending on your baby’s position and movement on the day.
What is a Level 2 ultrasound?
A Level II ultrasound is a detailed fetal anatomy scan. It provides an in-depth evaluation of your baby’s anatomy and development and typically takes 30–45 minutes.
What can I expect at my Anatomy Survey scan?
At your anatomy survey scan, your sonographer will:
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Confirm your baby’s position.
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Identify the placental location.
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Assess the amount of amniotic fluid.
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Measure your baby’s growth and compare it with the expected range.
How should I prepare for my anatomy survey scan?
About this scan
Also known as the routine or anatomy scan, this appointment provides a detailed check of your baby’s anatomy and is carried out between 21 and 22 weeks of pregnancy.
Before you arrive
Please do not empty your bladder just before the scan, as a comfortably full bladder can improve image quality.
When you arrive
If this is your first visit to Merrion Ultrasound, you’ll be asked to complete a short registration form at reception. You’ll then wait in the lounge until your sonographer calls you.
During the scan
Your sonographer will confirm your details and then perform the ultrasound. Much of what they examine won’t be obvious on the screen, as they are focusing on specific anatomical structures. They will check your baby’s face, spine, abdominal wall, heart, stomach, kidneys, arms, legs, hands, and feet. They will also take standard measurements, including head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length.
In addition to assessing growth, your sonographer will review the placenta, umbilical cord, and amniotic fluid.
After the scan
Our aim is to make your visit as relaxing as possible. We welcome questions at any time, so please don’t hesitate to ask your sonographer.
Can I ask to find out what gender my baby is at the Anatomy Scan?
From around 19 weeks, it’s sometimes possible to determine the baby’s sex on ultrasound, but it isn’t guaranteed. The baby’s position may not allow a clear view of the genital area. If you’d like us to look, please tell your sonographer at the start of your appointment. Even with the best images, sex determination depends on the baby’s position and movement, so occasionally it’s not possible on the day.
What will happen if a problem is suspected during the anatomy survey scan?
If we see anything concerning during your scan, we’ll explain it to you straight away. In some cases, we may ask you to return for additional images and a consultation with one of our fetal medicine specialists. If the matter is urgent, this is usually organised within 24 hours.
Most repeat scans are not due to serious problems—many are simply because the baby’s position or movement makes it hard to get clear views. Around 15% of scans need a repeat for one reason or another.
At the end of your appointment, you’ll receive images of your baby and a detailed report of the findings. With your consent, we can send a copy of the report to your obstetrician and/or GP.
To book an Anatomy Survey Scan, please call (01) 637 4060 or use the Make a Booking form. This scan is performed from 21 to 22 weeks. Merrion Ultrasound, located in Dublin 2, provides ultrasound for all stages of pregnancy—including early pregnancy, nuchal translucency, anatomy, and growth scans—and is open to all patients, not only those attending the National Maternity Hospital.
What is the 20-week scan?
Also called the anatomy survey or anomaly scan, this is a detailed ultrasound that checks your baby’s development and looks closely at key structures such as the brain, face, spine, heart, abdomen, kidneys and limbs. We also assess the placenta, umbilical cord and amniotic fluid.
When is it performed?
This scan is usually performed between 21 and 22 weeks of pregnancy.
How long does the scan take?
Typically 30–45 minutes, depending on your baby’s position and movement on the day.
What exactly is checked at this scan?
Your sonographer reviews your baby’s anatomy (including the brain, face, spine, heart, stomach, kidneys, abdominal wall, arms, legs, hands and feet), takes standard growth measurements, and checks the placenta, umbilical cord and amniotic fluid.
Which conditions can sometimes be seen — and which cannot?
This scan can identify (or raise suspicion of) some structural conditions, but no ultrasound scan can detect every condition. Sometimes a scan may also show findings (“markers”) that suggest a higher chance of an underlying genetic or chromosomal condition, but ultrasound alone cannot diagnose these.
Do I need to do anything to prepare?
Wear a comfortable two-piece outfit so your abdomen can be accessed easily.
Regarding your bladder: please follow the instructions we provide when booking. If we ask you to arrive with a comfortably full bladder, try not to empty your bladder immediately before the appointment. If you are uncomfortable at any point, tell your sonographer.
Can I find out the baby’s sex at this scan?
Often yes, if you would like to know and the view is clear — but it isn’t guaranteed. It depends on the baby’s position and movement. Please tell your sonographer at the start of your appointment.
What if the baby’s position prevents clear views?
Sometimes we can’t obtain all the views we need because of position or movement. In that case, we may recommend a repeat scan. A repeat scan does not automatically mean there is a problem.
What happens if something unexpected is seen?
We will explain any findings during your visit. In some cases, we may ask you to return for additional images and, if needed, arrange a consultation with a fetal medicine specialist. With your consent, we can share your report with your obstetrician and/or GP.
Is ultrasound safe for me and the baby?
Diagnostic ultrasound is widely used in pregnancy and is considered safe when performed appropriately by trained professionals.
Do I get photos and a report?
Yes — photos and a computerised report are included, and your sonographer will answer any questions you have.
Can I bring children to the appointment?
As this is a medical examination, we kindly ask that children do not attend. Thank you for your understanding.
Do I need a referral?
You can book directly.
You can either make a booking online or call the team on (01) 637 4060
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