Are extra scans safe for the baby?

Yes. Ultrasound has no known harm when done appropriately. Growth scans: to track the baby's size, usually every two to four weeks in the third trimester. Doppler scans: to check blood flow through the umbilical cord and the baby's vessels.

How many scans will I have?

It varies with your condition and how the pregnancy progresses. Your specialist will factor in your reports and dates before giving you a definite answer. If you are unsure whether this applies to you, ask the doctor at your next scan.

What is a non-stress test?

A test that records the baby's heart rate along with movements, usually for 20 to 40 minutes. The details depend on your dates, history and earlier reports, so your doctor will tailor the answer to you. If this is your situation, the safest step is to ask at your next visit rather than waiting.

Will I need amniocentesis?

Only if screening or scans suggest a need. Diagnostic tests such as CVS or amniocentesis when indicated. Your own result can differ, which is why the specialist looks at the whole picture before advising. It is a reasonable question to ask directly. the answer often depends on your scan findings.

Can I go home after the tests?

Usually yes, as most are outpatient tests. Extra tests are meant to protect you and your baby, not to alarm you. Thyroid, kidney and liver function tests where needed. Blood pressure checks and urine protein tests. Extra tests can be tiring.

What if a test result is abnormal?

Your doctor will explain the next steps and may repeat or add tests. The team will explain how this applies to your pregnancy when you come in. In most cases the answer also depends on your medical history, so bring it up at your appointment.

Twins and high-risk pregnancy

High-Risk Pregnancy: What Extra Scans and Tests Can You Expect?

A high-risk pregnancy usually means extra scans and tests. Here is a plain guide to what they are and why they are done.

Written and medically reviewed by the FMC Trichy clinical team4 October 20264 min read

In this guide

Pregnant woman with icons of ultrasound, blood test and monitor around her

Extra Scans

Early dating and NT scan: confirms due date and screens for chromosomal and some structural issues.
Detailed anomaly scan: a careful head-to-toe check of the baby around 18 to 22 weeks.
Fetal echocardiogram: a closer look at the baby's heart when there is a risk.
Growth scans: to track the baby's size, usually every two to four weeks in the third trimester.
[Doppler](/guides/why-doppler-scan-during-pregnancy) scans: to check blood flow through the umbilical cord and the baby's vessels.
Cervical length scan: to assess the risk of preterm birth in selected women.

Extra blood and other tests

Glucose tests for diabetes.
Blood pressure checks and urine protein tests.
Thyroid, kidney and liver function tests where needed.
Tests for infections.
Screening such as double marker or NIPT.
Diagnostic tests such as CVS or amniocentesis when indicated.

Monitoring the Baby

Kick counts: you note the baby's movements daily.
Non-stress test (NST): a belt monitors the baby's heartbeat and movements.
Biophysical profile: a scan-based score of the baby's wellbeing.

Planning the Delivery

Your team will help decide the right time, place and mode of delivery, ideally at a hospital equipped with facilities for mother and baby.

Tips for going through extra tests

Ask your doctor why each test is needed.
Keep all reports in one file.
Do not skip a visit because you feel well.
Share how you are feeling emotionally. Extra tests can be tiring.

What to do next

Extra tests are meant to protect you and your baby, not to alarm you. Dr Malathi G. Prasad at Trichy Fetal Medicine and Fertility Centre in Trichy can create a clear monitoring plan and explain each step along the way. For the broader picture, see our guide to High-Risk Pregnancy.

If this applies to your pregnancy, our growth scan with Doppler page explains what the visit involves, or you can meet our specialists before you decide anything.

Common questions

Sources

This guide is for general information and does not replace a consultation with a fetal medicine specialist.

In line with the PCPNDT Act, we do not perform or support sex determination.

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Growth Scan with Doppler

A scan that tracks your baby's growth and blood flow, especially important in the later months.

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