Biometry
Measure the head, abdomen and femur using standard planes.
Later-pregnancy assessment
Growth Scan
A growth scan combines fetal measurements with the pregnancy history to assess growth pattern and selected markers of wellbeing.
Book a pregnancy scan
What this examination is designed to review.
Estimated weight
Combine measurements to estimate fetal size for gestational age.
Fluid and movement
Review selected wellbeing features appropriate to the referral.
Blood flow when needed
Doppler assessment may be added when growth or placental function requires closer review.
The central idea
A trend is often more useful than one isolated estimate.
Estimated fetal weight is calculated from ultrasound measurements and has a margin of uncertainty. When concern persists, interval growth and Doppler findings may help build a clearer picture.
From the reason for the visit to the next useful step.
The exact plan may change with clinical findings, pregnancy stage and individual preference.
- 01
Confirm the reason
Growth scans may be planned because of maternal health, fundal-height findings or earlier ultrasound results.
- 02
Compare correctly
Previous measurements are considered only when the interval allows meaningful comparison.
- 03
Interpret in context
A smaller or larger estimate does not automatically mean a complication.
- 04
Agree monitoring
The next step may be routine follow-up, repeat growth, Doppler or obstetric review.
Questions about growth scan
These answers are general. Individual advice depends on the clinical history and assessment.
Reception can help with appointment details
It is an ultrasound estimate, not a direct weight, and it has a recognised margin of error.
Enough time is usually needed for a meaningful change in measurements; the interval is chosen for the clinical situation.
No. Some babies are constitutionally small. Growth pattern, Doppler, fluid, history and other findings help distinguish possible concerns.
No. It estimates size at the time of the scan and cannot predict an exact future birth weight.
It may be used when blood flow and placental function need assessment, particularly if growth is a concern.