A TIFFA scan is a detailed ultrasound of your baby's anatomy, done around 18 to 22 weeks. Find out when to book it and who may need closer attention.
Around the fifth month, many parents are told it is time for their TIFFA scan, often with little explanation. It is a detailed ultrasound of how the baby's organs and body have formed. This article explains what it examines, when to book it and who may need extra attention.
The name is widely used in India. The same examination may be called an anomaly scan, anatomy scan or 20-week scan, and centres differ a little in what their report covers.
Think of it as the difference between a quick check and a full inspection. Earlier scans confirm the heartbeat and growth. At the TIFFA scan the examiner works through the brain, face, spine, heart, abdomen, kidneys and limbs in turn, and also records where the placenta lies and how much fluid surrounds the baby. Our anomaly scan guide walks through each of these structures.
The usual window is 18 to 22 weeks, and many doctors aim for around 20. Before 18 weeks some structures are too small to assess properly, and later the baby's size and position can make certain views harder.
Do not leave it late. If the scan raises a question, you may need a repeat scan, a fetal heart scan or a genetic counselling session, and arranging these takes a little time. If your due date was revised after your first scan, confirm with your doctor which week to count from.
Most obstetricians recommend it for every pregnancy. Some situations make it more important, and a few may call for a specialist to perform it:
Having one of these does not mean something is wrong. It means your doctor wants a careful look.
The scan is done on the abdomen and is painless. Most centres ask for no special preparation, though it is worth confirming when you book. Allow extra time, because there is a lot to cover.
If the baby is lying in an awkward position, the sonographer may ask you to walk around for a few minutes or return later. A callback usually means only that a view was incomplete. The baby's sex will not be disclosed, as sex determination is prohibited in India under the PCPNDT Act.
Some differences are very small, some only show up as pregnancy advances, and many genetic conditions need separate tests. The heart is a common source of confusion. The TIFFA scan includes the main heart views, but a fetal echocardiogram is a more detailed heart scan, advised when there is a specific reason such as a screening finding or family history.
If something unexpected is seen, the usual next step is a closer look, not an immediate conclusion.
A specialist opinion is worth seeking if your report mentions a finding, if part of the scan could not be completed, or if your history makes you want a more detailed assessment. Patients seeking fetal medicine consultation in Trichy can contact Trichy Fetal Medicine and Fertility Centre through the official website.
Treat the TIFFA scan as a planned check rather than a test to dread. Go within the window your doctor suggests, carry your earlier reports, and ask for the findings to be explained in plain language before you leave.
If your doctor has suggested this, our anomaly scan page lists what is included and how to book; the team is happy to talk it through first.
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.
Anomaly Scan
The detailed mid-pregnancy scan that examines your baby's organs, growth, and wellbeing.
Card 1 of 3
Call us, message us on WhatsApp, or send a request and our team will call you back to schedule your visit.
Mon - Fri: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
