A structural ultrasound, also known as a “fetal structural ultrasound,” is a procedure used to ensure the normal growth and development of the fetus. During the process, the baby’s limbs and internal organs are carefully examined. In the unfortunate event of identifying any structural abnormalities in the fetus, further diagnostic tests may be conducted, and expectant parents may choose to terminate the pregnancy.
The optimal time for a structural ultrasound is usually between the 18th and 22nd week of pregnancy. If the ultrasound is done too early, some of the baby’s organs may not be fully developed, making it difficult to detect any structural abnormalities. On the other hand, if the ultrasound is done too late, the baby’s bones may obstruct the view of the internal organs, making the examination challenging.
The entire process of a structural ultrasound takes about 30 minutes. The doctor will carefully examine the baby’s structures and internal organs, including the skull, brain, eyes, lips, heart, lungs, abdomen, kidneys, bladder, spine, limbs, and genitalia. They will also assess the amniotic fluid volume and placenta position.
A prenatal screening ultrasound only provides a basic assessment of the baby’s heartbeat, size, position, as well as the amniotic fluid volume and placenta position of the expectant mother. In comparison, a structural ultrasound is more detailed and comprehensive, as it includes a thorough examination of the baby’s structures and internal organs.
Structural ultrasound services provided by public hospitals are usually free of charge and are generally limited to older expectant mothers, those with medical histories, or those with suspected fetal abnormalities. Private hospitals/clinics may charge a fee for a structural ultrasound, but the waiting time is usually shorter. Some private facilities may even offer 3D or 4D ultrasound imaging, and expectant mothers may receive detailed reports, photos, and videos as records after the examination.
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If you need to have a structural ultrasound, it is recommended to book an appointment 1 to 2 months in advance to ensure availability during the optimal time for the examination.
Blood tests
Assessing blood type, Rh factor, haemoglobin and mean corpuscular volume, German measles antibodies, hepatitis B antigen, syphilis testing, and HIV antibodies.
Urine test
Checking for the presence of sugar and protein in the urine to diagnose gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.
Down syndrome screening
Methods include ultrasound measurements or blood tests, which help expectant parents prepare psychologically and make the most appropriate decisions.
HIV testing
Test results can be negative or positive. In case of a positive result, a venous blood sample will be taken for further testing at a laboratory. Early diagnosis allows for the development of effective treatment plans for both the expectant mother and the newborn, significantly reducing the chance of infant HIV infection to 1-2%.
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) swab screening
GBS can be detected through a swab test. Generally, around 10-30% of expectant mothers’ vaginal or rectal swab samples may show the presence of this bacteria, with the possibility of infection in the baby during the later stages of pregnancy.
Author’s biography:
Dr. Brian Li Man-hin
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from the University of London
- Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (FRCOG), UK
- Fellow of the Hong Kong College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (FHKCOG)
- Fellow of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (FHKAM) in Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Author
The Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited is an authorized life insurance company and Hong Kong’s very first virtual insurer approved. Through the use of modern technology and medical expertise, Bowtie offers an agent-free, commission-free and more convenient online platform for customers to quote, apply and claim for Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme (VHIS) anytime anywhere. Bowtie is ranked first in the direct channel sales throughout 2021.
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www.bowtie.com.hk The above content is provided by the Bowtie Team team. The information is for reference only and cannot replace any personal advice given by qualified medical professionals.
