What to expect from a growth scan for polyhydramnios

During the scan, gel and an abdominal probe are used to create images. The sonographer measures parts of your baby's body, checks the heartbeat and movement, and estimates fluid using several pockets seen on ultrasound. They may also look at the placenta and baby's position. The results help your obstetric team consider whether the fluid level is changing and whether additional monitoring or tests are needed.

Ask whether you need a full bladder; later-pregnancy scans often use different instructions. Take your maternity records and note changes in movement, discomfort, or breathing. Attend the review appointment so the findings can be explained in context. Your care plan may include repeat scans, checks for causes of increased fluid, and discussion of timing and place of birth.

Call your maternity team urgently if your waters break, you develop regular contractions, significant abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, or a sudden increase in breathlessness. Contact them immediately for reduced or changed fetal movement. Sudden fluid loss or labour symptoms can need assessment even when a recent scan was reassuring.

Ask what the fluid measurement means, whether your baby's growth and anatomy were seen clearly, and what monitoring is planned next. Clarify which symptoms should bring you to hospital, whether you need to check blood glucose or other causes, and how polyhydramnios may affect labour planning.