3 Things Third Trimester Growth Scans Can Tell You

By Dr Michelle LIM, Associate Consultant and Associate Professor Tan Thiam Chye, Visiting Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital

Third trimester scans between weeks 32 and 36 are to ensure that your baby is growing well. Here are the three things you'll be able to tell during the Growth Scan:

1. The Liquor Volume

The amount of liquor in your amniotic sac is important as it enables your baby to swim around comfortably. Most times, it will be normal, but if the sonographer detects that it's low, this may indicate that either your waters have broken or that further investigations are needed. Rest assured that your doctor will review the results and take appropriate action.

Related: Tests for Me and My Baby

2. The Position of Your Placenta

If your placenta was low at your week 20 scan, there's a good chance that it will have moved away from your cervix by now. A placenta that's too close to the cervix is known as placenta praevia. If you're diagnosed with this, your doctor will advise you to deliver your baby via a Caesarean section.

Related: Cesarean Section Delivery

3. The Position of Your Baby

If your baby was previously in the head-up position (breech), there's a good chance that he or she would have rotated to the head-down position (cephalic). If your baby is still in the head-up position, your doctor will either advise for you to have an external rotation manoeuvre (also known as ECV — External Cephalic Version) if you're suitable, or for you to have your baby via Caesarean section.

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Sources:

The New Art and Science of Pregnancy and Childbirth 2008, World Scientific

Healthy Start for your Pregnancy 2012, Health Promotion Board Singapore