This scan is pretty much the same as your 12 week scan or dating scan. However it can last a little longer – between 30 minutes and an hour. This is because it’s looking at more specific aspects of your baby’s development. Also…a full bladder is recommended!

While the excitement can often revolve around finding out the sex of the baby there are some other very important things the sonographer will be looking out for:

First: From 20 weeks, the sonographer can clearly see individual structures in your baby, structures such as the heart and brain. They will look in detail at your baby’s organs and how things like their hands, tummy, face, spine and feet are forming, as well as the circumference of his head. 

Second: The location of your placenta will also be checked. This is to rule out or confirm if it’s low lying which may affect your mode of delivery.

Third: The amount of amniotic fluid will also be measured.

Finally: Should you choose to find out….The sex of the baby!

Finding out the sex is not always 100% guaranteed!!! It depends on what way your baby is lying at that particular time so don’t be disappointed if the sonographer is unable to tell you…They want to be 100% sure too.