Does a maternal fetal medicine perform growth scan?

A growth scan is an ultrasound used to assess fetal size and development over the course of pregnancy. Measurements may include the head, abdomen, and thigh bone, alongside amniotic fluid, placenta, and blood flow when needed. A maternal-fetal medicine specialist may be involved if growth needs monitoring, a medical condition affects pregnancy, earlier imaging needs review, or placental function is a concern. One scan is interpreted with earlier measurements, dates, examination findings, and your wider pregnancy history.

Bring previous ultrasound reports and tell the clinician about medical conditions, medicines, and changes in fetal movement. Ask which measurements will be taken, whether Doppler blood-flow assessment is planned, and when the result will be discussed. Keep any follow-up appointments so the team can compare measurements over time. The scan itself uses an ultrasound probe and does not involve needles.

Contact your maternity unit urgently for reduced or absent fetal movement once you have an established movement pattern, vaginal bleeding, fluid loss, severe pain, regular contractions, or sudden illness. Do not wait for a scheduled growth scan if a red-flag symptom appears. Ask the clinic how to report less urgent changes.

Ask how growth is being compared with earlier scans, whether fluid or blood flow needs monitoring, what follow-up interval is planned, and which findings would change your care. Confirm whom to contact between appointments.