Pregnancy Interval Growth Scan with Bpp & Doppler Ultrasound Scan

Purpose of the Scan

The Pregnancy Interval Growth Scan with BPP & Doppler Ultrasound Scan is a specialised third-trimester ultrasound that tracks your baby’s growth velocity, checks the placenta’s efficiency, and evaluates blood flow to and from the baby.

Key Benefits for Mother and Baby

• Confirms adequate fetal oxygenation and nutrient supply
• Detects early signs of growth restriction or placental insufficiency
• Guides timely medical intervention to lower stillbirth risk
• Provides reassurance to expectant parents with detailed visual feedback

Understanding the Biophysical Profile (BPP)

The Biophysical Profile is a 30-minute, non-invasive test that scores five vital fetal behaviours:

Role of Doppler Ultrasound in Pregnancy

Doppler measures blood-flow velocity in the umbilical artery and, when needed, the middle cerebral artery (MCA). This reveals whether the baby is compensating for reduced placental function by redistributing blood flow.

Difference Between Routine Growth Scan and BPP+Doppler

• Routine growth scan: Assesses size, weight, and amniotic fluid only.
• Pregnancy interval growth scan with BPP & Doppler ultrasound scan: Adds functional evaluation of placental efficiency and fetal oxygenation.

• Fetal breathing movements
• Gross body movements
• Fetal tone
• Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI)
• Umbilical Artery Doppler
• Middle Cerebral Artery Doppler (if clinically indicated)

• Monitor fetal growth velocity
• Evaluate placental function
• Assess fetal oxygenation status

Recommended Gestational Weeks

• 28–40 weeks: Standard interval scan every 3–4 weeks.
• Weekly or bi-weekly: If intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or placental issues are suspected.

High-Risk Pregnancy Indicators

• Diabetes, hypertension, or pre-eclampsia
• Previous IUGR or stillbirth
• Decreased fetal movements
• Abnormal fundal height curve
• Twin or multiple pregnancy

Doctor Referral Criteria

Any consultant obstetrician or gynaecologist can refer. Bring your pregnancy notes and any previous scan reports.

• Early detection of IUGR
• Timely intervention (e.g., delivery planning, steroid administration)
• Reassurance when results are normal

• Wear loose clothing for easy abdominal access.
• Bring prior scan reports for comparison.
• Have a light snack or juice 20 min before to encourage fetal activity.

• Signed referral from your obstetrician
• Valid pregnancy notes or maternity booklet

• Optimal: 28–36 weeks for interval growth pattern.
• Follow-up: Weekly or bi-weekly if IUGR suspected.

• All pregnant women ≥28 weeks gestation
• Especially recommended for high-risk pregnancies

1. Check-in & ID verification at Cadabams Diagnostics reception
2. Ultrasound gel applied to abdomen
3. BPP scoring over ~30 minutes
4. Doppler measurements (umbilical & MCA) in 10–15 minutes
5. Report printed and explained by the sonographer; digital copy sent via email/SMS

• Inform your sonographer of latex allergy
• Report any vaginal bleeding or ruptured membranes

• Safety: Ultrasound uses no radiation; hundred-thousand-plus scans show no harmful effects.
• Limitations:

• Maternal obesity may reduce image clarity.
• Severe oligohydramnios can obscure some views.