Morphology

A morphology scan, also known as a 20-22 week scan, is an ultrasound used to assess the baby’s development, including organ and bone structures and the placenta.

It’s also during this scan that our sonographers will be able to identify the baby’s gender. If you’d like to know the baby’s gender, let the sonographer know. In some instances, the baby may be in the wrong position, and they will be unable to confirm the gender.

Morphology FAQs

    • Our team will provide specific instructions at the time of booking, and these should be followed carefully.
    • On arrival, please present to reception. You will be asked to complete a short questionnaire about your medical history.
    • A full bladder is required for this scan. Please drink 500ml of water one hour before your appointment and try not to empty your bladder. If you experience difficulty holding your bladder, please mention this at the time of booking.
    • To complete this scan, your abdomen will be exposed. To allow our team easy access to the area, please come dressed in a separate top and bottoms.
    • Due to the medical nature of the scan, we ask that you be accompanied by only one other person. If you need to bring another child, please ensure they are supervised at all times.
  • To complete your scan, you will be asked to lie down on a bed, and your abdomen will be exposed. 

    The sonographer will do their best to protect your clothing as they apply a warmed gel to your abdomen.

    The gel helps the sonographer move the transducer smoothly over your abdomen and towards the pelvic/ovarian area.

    During a morphology scan, the sonographer will measure your baby’s organs and bone structures, including the heart, lungs, spine, fingers, and toes. 

    There will also be an opportunity to reveal the gender of your baby. Please let the sonographer know if you would like to know your baby’s gender; however, please be aware that this is not always possible due to the baby’s position.

    In some cases, a transvaginal ultrasound is also performed. 

    The sonographer and radiologist will work together during an appointment to ensure all the necessary images are captured. This means that sometimes the radiologist will come into the room. If this is the case, it will be discussed with you first.

    • Queensland X-Ray provides patients with all of their images via our Patient Portal. Shortly after your first visit to Queensland X-Ray, you will receive a text message about accessing your results through our Patient Portal. This secure portal allows you to view and download your medical images and results at any time. It is compatible with most internet browsers and mobile devices, ensuring accessibility from anywhere in Australia.
    • Please note you are not permitted to take photos or video during the scan. This is a medical procedure; the health of your baby is our primary concern, and we ask for your support and understanding.  
  • A morphology scan can take up to one hour. This allows the sonographer to capture all the necessary images to ensure a thorough and accurate assessment of your baby’s development. 

How much will it cost?

Fees for radiology procedures will vary depending on a variety of factors. We will advise you about the cost of your service at the time of booking but if you do have any questions, contact us and one of our team will be happy to help with your query. You can read more about our billing information here.

How do I access my images?

At Queensland X-Ray, we provide our patients with their images and results online. To access your images and results, you’ll need to register for an account when you visit one of our practices. If you’ve already registered, you can access the Patient Portal here.

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