Absolutely basic question...

[TheGrandOldDuke]

the 12 weeks scan is just a dating scan right? They don't look for any anomalies then? If they did, would they be able to see any??

They do check some things. Not a medic so can't tell exactly what, but I know that they check that limbs are developing correctly, and check against some Downs markers. I expect someone more knowledgeable will come along soon!

Thank you :-)

They should measure nuchal fold and check for Downs markers such as absent nasal bone and heart problems.

no, the nuchal fold scan (NT scan) is a specific scan that not everyone has. I was asked if i wanted it . You may be having a dating scan- which will look at basic development. Ask your MW or look at the hospital letter to see what it says.

The 12 week scan does involve looking at the nuchal fold.
If it is just the basic scan it does not involve the detailed measurement and calculation of odds that is done for NT screening, but a large abnormality would be noted.

The 12 week scan does not always do the nuchal fold test, it is not routinely used in Northern Ireland for example.

It can show abnormalities my babies conditon was diagnosed at the 12 week scan, she had anencephaly which is linked to spina bifida but in this case the skull does not grow and the brain cannot develop. It can show problems with the head/ spine.

I think even if you opted out of Downs screening, if the nuchal was excessively raised (11mm first time), they would have a duty to tell you. There was also hydrops.
This would be a marker of a very poorly baby so they couldn't not tell you really.

Hello, the NT scan is standard within our trust (for women over 34) - I'm sure they would pick up on it anyway if it were v obvious. Ask the sonographer, or MW, they will be happy to help all they can. Good luck:)