Dr. Mathew's Fetal ScansCare for the Unborn

Growth Scan & Fetal Doppler in Kollam – Third Trimester Monitoring

Essential third-trimester assessments to ensure your baby is growing well and receiving adequate oxygen and nutrients through the placenta.

What is a Growth Scan?

A growth scan is a serial ultrasound performed in the third trimester to monitor your baby's development. By measuring four parameters — the baby's head (BPD, HC), abdomen (AC), and femur (FL) — we calculate estimated fetal weight and plot it on growth charts to ensure appropriate development.

Recommended Growth Scan Timeline

28 weeks
First third trimester growth scan — establishes baseline weight and Doppler indices.
32 weeks
Second growth scan — critical for detecting early IUGR and placental dysfunction.
36–38 weeks
Final pre-delivery scan — checks position, amniotic fluid, and estimated weight.
Any gestation
Performed immediately if: reduced fetal movements, hypertension, diabetes, or previous IUGR concerns.

What is Fetal Doppler?

Fetal Doppler measures blood flow velocity in specific fetal and placental vessels — the placental lifeline. It is the most powerful tool available to detect placental dysfunction (IUGR) early, often weeks before it becomes clinically apparent.

Umbilical Artery Doppler

Measures placental resistance. Elevated resistance or absent end-diastolic flow indicates placental dysfunction.

Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA)

Detects "brain sparing" — the fetus redirecting blood flow to protect the brain in IUGR.

Uterine Artery Doppler

Assesses pre-eclampsia and IUGR risk. Used from 20–24 weeks in high-risk pregnancies.

Ductus Venosus Doppler

Evaluates fetal cardiac function. Abnormal waveform signals imminent decompensation.

What Can Be Detected?

Growth scans combined with Doppler studies detect IUGR (Intrauterine Growth Restriction), placental insufficiency, fetal anaemia (elevated MCA peak systolic velocity), and fetal distress. These findings guide the obstetrician in making critical decisions — including the optimal timing of delivery — to ensure the best possible outcome for your baby.

Serving South Kerala: Third trimester growth and Doppler monitoring for patients from Kollam, Kottarakkara, Karunagappally, Kundara, Paravur, Punalur, Kayamkulam, Pathanamthitta, and across South Kerala.

Frequently Asked Questions – Growth Scan & Fetal Doppler Kollam

How many growth scans do I need in the third trimester?
In a normal low-risk pregnancy, growth scans are typically done at 28 weeks, 32 weeks, and 36–38 weeks. In high-risk pregnancies (diabetes, hypertension, previous IUGR, multiple pregnancy), scans are usually done every 2–4 weeks from 28 weeks onward, with serial Doppler studies.
My baby is measuring small on the growth scan — should I be worried?
Not immediately. A single measurement below a percentile is not a diagnosis. Dr. Mathew assesses the complete picture — the serial growth trend over time, fetal Doppler indices (umbilical and MCA blood flow), amniotic fluid volume, and biophysical profile — before any conclusion is drawn. Many babies measuring small are constitutionally small but perfectly healthy.
What is the difference between a growth scan and a routine pregnancy ultrasound?
A growth scan includes detailed biometry (four measurements to estimate fetal weight), amniotic fluid assessment, and fetal Doppler studies of the umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery, and sometimes the uterine arteries and ductus venosus. A routine check-up scan is a basic assessment. Growth scans are specifically designed to detect IUGR and placental dysfunction.
Is fetal Doppler safe to repeat?
Fetal Doppler uses non-ionizing ultrasound and no X-ray radiation. It has no known harmful effects when medically indicated and performed by a trained professional using appropriate settings and exposure time.
What does "brain sparing" mean on a fetal Doppler report?
Brain sparing is a compensatory response the fetus uses when the placenta is not functioning well — the baby redirects blood flow to protect the brain at the expense of other organs. It shows as a low-resistance (low PI) Middle Cerebral Artery Doppler combined with a high-resistance Umbilical Artery Doppler. It is an important sign of fetal stress and triggers closer monitoring or early delivery planning.
How much does this scan or test cost?
Fees vary by the exact scan or test advised. Call 9562390009 for the current fee; the team will confirm it before your appointment.
When will I receive the result?
Ultrasound findings are discussed with you and the written scan report is normally provided on the same day. Laboratory tests have separate processing times, which are explained before testing.
How do I book an appointment?
Call 9562390009 or use the booking link on this page. Appointments are required so enough time can be reserved for the examination and discussion.

Authoritative sources

All answers written and medically reviewed by Dr. Mathew Thomas, MBBS, MD (Radiodiagnosis), FMF UK Certified · Last updated 17 July 2026

Schedule Your Growth Scan

Ensure your baby is growing well and the placenta is functioning optimally. Call now for priority appointment.

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Patient Guide & FAQs

Preparation tips and what to bring to your scan.

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