My doctor has asked me for an 'early FA scan' at 18 weeks and then a 'follow up FA scan' at 21 weeks. Is this normal/healthy? I seem to have a normal (1st) pregnancy so far with no complications or worry points as such.

By Anonymous March 26, 2012 - 11:48pm

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I am currently 18 weeks pregnant with my first child and my doctor has scheduled me for two FA scans. He requests one 'early FA scan' at 18 weeks, followed by another 'late FA scan' at 21 weeks. I have had no complications in my pregnancy so far, other than mild swelling of my fingers and ankles during the end of the 1st trimester. The dr put me on vitamens (including fish oil), asked me to reduce my salt intake, increase my water intake, and get a bit more excercise. following these, the swelling has almost dissapeared. I personally have felt I am 'bigger' than my colleagues who are pregnant at the same stage, but after an ultasound during my 15th week, the dr said everything appears to be 'normal'. Now he has scheduled me for these 2 FA scans as per his own 'protocol' but has left the decision up to me. Are two scans, so close together, really required if no red-flags have been put up? Will too frequent scans harm my baby (my MILs concern!)? I have read online that for most women progressing normally, a single FA around the 20-21 week is acceptable. Please advice. Thanks!

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Anonymous

Thanks Danielle! It does sound like a good suggestion to decide on the 2nd FA scan when the time comes. Hadn't thought that was an option :)
I'm going in for my early FA scan tomorrow (end of 18 weeks) and will take it from there...

March 28, 2012 - 6:52pm

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Danielle Serrano

Hi Anonymous,

As you stated, this is simply a recommendation. It's important to remember that some doctors simply choose to do things differently. It sounds like he may be a little more cautious, which isn't bad. If you're comfortable having just one, I would go with that. However, it doesn't sound like the decision needs to be made now. Ask your doctor if you can decide on the second FA scan after having the first one.

So far it sounds like everything is going well, congratulations to you!

For more information, visit some of our resources:

https://www.empowher.com/pregnancy-101

https://www.empowher.com/condition/pregnancy

Best,

Danielle.

March 27, 2012 - 6:58am