గ్రోత్ స్కాన్ (పెరుగుదల స్కాన్)

How accurate is the estimated fetal weight from a growth scan?

The EFW from ultrasound has an error margin of approximately ±10–15% — so a baby estimated at 2.5kg could weigh anywhere between 2.1kg and 2.9kg at birth. This variability is inherent to the method. EFW is most useful for identifying trends over serial scans rather than as a single definitive measurement.

My baby is on the 20th percentile — is that normal?

Yes. Percentile simply means where your baby ranks among 100 babies of the same gestational age. The 20th percentile means 80 out of 100 babies are larger. Being on any percentile between 10 and 90 is considered normal, and what matters is that your baby stays on a consistent percentile across multiple scans — not that they are on a higher one.

What is the difference between SGA and FGR?

SGA (Small for Gestational Age) simply means the baby measures below the 10th percentile — they may be constitutionally small (healthy, just small parents) with no cause for concern. FGR (Fetal Growth Restriction) means the baby is failing to reach its growth potential because of a problem — usually placental insufficiency. FGR is diagnosed when growth is poor AND Doppler blood flow shows abnormalities. Not all SGA babies have FGR.

How often will I need growth scans?

For a low-risk pregnancy, a single growth scan at 28–32 weeks is often sufficient. For higher-risk pregnancies (twins, GDM, hypertension, previous SGA baby, reduced movements), growth scans are done every 2–4 weeks from 28 weeks, sometimes more frequently. Your doctor decides the schedule based on your specific situation.

Does a large baby always mean I will need a C-section?

Not necessarily. EFW estimates have significant margins of error. Many 'large on scan' babies deliver vaginally without difficulty. Your doctor considers multiple factors — actual EFW, your pelvis, diabetes control, baby's position, and clinical examination — before making any delivery planning decisions. A single large EFW estimate alone is rarely the sole reason for a C-section.