How Often Should Growth Scans Be Done in a High-Risk Pregnancy?

Why repeat scans are needed

One scan shows the baby's size at one moment. Repeat scans show the pattern of growth, which is far more useful. Doctors compare measurements over time and look at fluid and Doppler blood flow to judge whether the baby is thriving.

Common situations and typical approaches

• Diabetes or gestational diabetes: growth scans in the third trimester, to check for a large or small baby and fluid levels.
• High blood pressure or pre-eclampsia: repeated scans with Doppler, as these can affect the placenta.
• Baby [measuring small](/guides/what-does-it-mean-if-baby-is-measuring-small) (FGR): closer follow-up, often every one to two weeks, with Doppler.
• Twin pregnancy: regular growth scans, with extra attention if the twins are growing differently.
• Previous stillbirth or growth problem: serial scans from the third trimester or earlier.

The intervals above are general. Your doctor may choose a different plan.

What else is checked

• Amniotic fluid volume.
• Blood flow in the umbilical cord and baby's brain vessels.
• The baby's heart-rate pattern when needed.
• Your blood pressure and symptoms.

What you can do

• Keep every scheduled appointment.
• Count and note the baby's movements daily.
• Take medicines as advised.
• Report reduced movements, bleeding, leaking of fluid, severe headache or swelling at once.

If you remember one thing

Frequent scans are a way of staying one step ahead and keeping both mother and baby safe. Dr Malathi G. Prasad at Trichy Fetal Medicine and Fertility Centre in Trichy can set a follow-up plan suited to your pregnancy.

When you are ready, the growth scan with Doppler service page covers timings and preparation; questions about your own situation are best put to our specialists.

Related guides

• What Is a Growth Scan and When Is It Done?
• What Makes a Pregnancy High Risk?