The early anomaly scan, also known as the early fetal anatomy scan, is performed between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy – often alongside the NT/NB scan. It provides a detailed evaluation of your baby's developing anatomy, allowing for the early detection of major structural anomalies such as heart defects, brain abnormalities, abdominal wall defects, and skeletal dysplasias.
While the standard anomaly scan is typically performed at 18‑22 weeks, the early anomaly scan offers several advantages: earlier reassurance, the possibility of earlier diagnostic testing if needed, and more time for decision‑making and planning. It is particularly valuable for women at increased risk of fetal anomalies or those who want the most comprehensive early assessment.
At Amytri, our early anomaly scan is performed by a consultant radiologist with specialist training in fetal medicine. Using high‑resolution ultrasound, we carefully examine fetal structures, measure key parameters, and provide a detailed report. We explain our findings clearly and, if any concerns arise, discuss the next steps with you in a sensitive and supportive manner.
An early anomaly scan can detect many major structural abnormalities before the traditional 20‑week scan – giving you more time to prepare, seek further tests, or plan for specialised care.
Detecting a major anomaly at 12–14 weeks, rather than 20 weeks, gives you additional time to consider options – whether that's diagnostic testing, specialised prenatal care, or planning for delivery and neonatal support.
When combined with NT measurement and nasal bone assessment, the early anomaly scan enhances the overall screening performance for chromosomal and structural conditions, providing a more complete picture.
For the vast majority, the early anomaly scan will show a normally developing baby with no major anomalies – providing early reassurance and reducing anxiety long before the later scan.
Our early anomaly scan follows a structured protocol, examining each major anatomical system in detail.
We assess the skull shape, brain midline, cerebral ventricles, and the choroid plexus – looking for early signs of conditions like anencephaly, encephalocele, or ventriculomegaly.
We evaluate the four‑chamber view of the heart and, where possible, the outflow tracts – enabling early detection of major congenital heart defects.
We check for gastroschisis, omphalocele, and the normal appearance of the stomach, bladder, and kidneys – all visible by 12 weeks.
We visualise the spine, ribs, and long bones – screening for neural tube defects, skeletal dysplasias, and limb deficiencies.
We assess amniotic fluid volume and placental location, which can indicate early complications like oligohydramnios or placenta previa.
We measure crown‑rump length, biparietal diameter, and other parameters to confirm accurate dating and assess growth.
We recommend booking between 11 and 14 weeks, ideally around 12‑13 weeks, when the fetus is large enough for detailed anatomy yet still transabdominally accessible.
For best visualisation, we ask you to come with a comfortably full bladder – this lifts the uterus and gives a clearer view of the pelvic organs.
We systematically examine each anatomical area. If the baby's position isn't ideal, we may ask you to walk around or offer a transvaginal scan for better views.
We discuss our findings with you immediately, provide a detailed written report, and, if any concerns arise, discuss the next steps – including further testing or specialist referral.
Even with no risk factors, some women choose this scan for early reassurance. However, it is especially useful in these situations.
Advanced maternal age increases the risk of chromosomal anomalies and certain structural defects – early anatomy assessment provides valuable information.
If you've had a previous pregnancy affected by a congenital defect, an early scan can provide reassurance or early detection.
Certain genetic syndromes are associated with structural anomalies that may be visible on early ultrasound.
If your NT/NB scan or combined screening shows a higher risk, a detailed early anatomy scan can provide additional context and help guide next steps.
Early assessment of each baby's anatomy is particularly important in twin or triplet pregnancies, where anomalies are more common.
Many women choose the early anomaly scan simply to gain reassurance as early as possible – a perfectly valid reason to have the scan.
The early anomaly scan requires specialised training and experience to recognise normal and abnormal anatomy at this early gestational age. Our consultant radiologist has extensive experience in fetal medicine and follows rigorous protocols to ensure the most accurate assessment possible.
The early anomaly scan can be an emotional experience – having your partner with you provides support and allows you both to see your baby's development and hear the results together.
We encourage partners to attend the scan. The room is private, with a large screen for viewing. We explain each structure as we go, so you both understand what we are seeing. If the scan reveals any concerns, we discuss them sensitively and ensure you have all the information you need for next steps.
The NT/NB scan focuses on measuring the nuchal translucency and assessing the nasal bone – primarily for chromosomal screening. The early anomaly scan is a more detailed anatomical survey that checks for structural defects in the brain, heart, abdomen, spine, and limbs. They are often performed together during the same visit.
Not all structures are fully developed or visible at 12‑14 weeks. Some anomalies may not be detectable until later. The early scan can detect many major defects, but a normal early scan does not guarantee that everything is normal – the 20‑week scan remains the gold standard for comprehensive anatomy assessment.
We will discuss the findings with you immediately and explain what they mean. Depending on the anomaly, we may recommend further diagnostic tests (e.g., amniocentesis, fetal echocardiography) or refer you to a specialist centre for multidisciplinary care. We support you through every step.
Yes, for the abdominal scan we recommend a comfortably full bladder – it helps elevate the uterus and provides a clearer window. If we need a transvaginal scan for better views, you will be asked to empty your bladder beforehand.
Approximately 30‑45 minutes. Sometimes it may take longer if the baby is not in a good position or if we need to repeat views for accuracy.
Yes, ultrasound uses sound waves and is completely safe for both mother and baby. It has no known harmful effects and is widely used in prenatal care.
From your baby's very first heartbeat to your family's lifelong health — we're here with precision, expertise and care. Reserve your appointment in under a minute.