A detailed look at your baby
The Guardian Angel Anomaly Scan is a 30-minute appointment that carefully reviews your baby’s development and checks for major visible abnormalities. It’s best performed between 18 and 21 weeks of pregnancy.
What we look at
During the scan, your sonographer checks your baby’s:
- Brain and head structures
- Spine and spinal cord
- Heart and its chambers
- Face, including the lips
- Abdomen and internal organs
- Kidneys and bladder
- Bones and limbs
We also measure your baby’s growth against their gestational age and check the position of the placenta.
Important to know
This scan looks for detectable conditions at the time of your appointment. Some conditions can’t be seen at this stage, including on NHS scans. If anything concerning is seen, we’ll explain it and advise prompt follow-up with your GP or midwife.
This is an elective reassurance scan, not a diagnostic examination. It does not replace your NHS scans or antenatal appointments. If we see anything that needs follow-up, we’ll explain it and advise you to contact your midwife, GP or maternity unit.
What’s included
- Detailed review of your baby’s anatomy
- Growth measurements for gestational age
- Placental position
- Three black-and-white prints
- Comprehensive written report
Who it’s for
- Reassurance between NHS appointments
- A complication or concern in a previous pregnancy
- A second opinion before or after your NHS 20-week scan
How to prepare
- Bring your NHS maternity notes or previous scan reports if you have them.
- You don’t need a full bladder for this scan.
- Up to 5 guests are welcome, including children of any age.
Guardian Angel Anomaly Scan: your questions
Is this the same as the NHS 20-week scan?
It checks many of the same structures, but it doesn’t replace your NHS anomaly scan. Please still attend your NHS appointment.
How long does the anomaly scan take?
About 30 minutes. If your baby is in an awkward position, we may ask you to walk around or change position.
Can I find out the gender at my anomaly scan?
Yes, if your baby’s position allows and you’d like to know.
Information on this page is general and doesn’t replace advice from your GP, midwife or consultant. If you feel unwell or are worried about symptoms, contact your GP, call NHS 111 or, in an emergency, 999.
