Do you need a referral for an anomaly scan?

An anomaly scan is a detailed ultrasound examination during pregnancy. It assesses the baby’s developing anatomy, checks growth and the placenta, and looks at the amount of amniotic fluid. It can identify findings that need further assessment, but an ultrasound cannot detect every condition.

A referral or request from an obstetric clinician helps the sonographer know your pregnancy dates, medical history, previous scan findings, and any specific concern to assess. The scan is not a substitute for routine antenatal appointments.

Ask your obstetrician, midwife, or maternity clinic when the scan should be scheduled and whether they will provide a referral. If a diagnostic centre accepts direct bookings, ask what pregnancy details and documents it needs. Bring previous scan reports and tell the service about bleeding, pain, or other symptoms so you can be directed to appropriate care.

Do not wait for a routine anomaly scan if you have heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fluid leakage, regular painful contractions, or reduced fetal movement later in pregnancy. Contact your maternity service urgently because these symptoms need clinical assessment rather than an imaging appointment alone.

Ask what the scan will assess, when it should happen, who will explain the findings, and whether another scan or specialist review could be needed. Check how to receive the report and whom to contact with concerns.