What is the 20 week scan?

This week we saw Wise Hippo mum Ferne McCann and her partner Lorri Haines share their excitement and relief during their baby scan on ITV's Ferne McCann: First Time Mum.

This scan is known as the anatomy scan or baby anomaly scan, the sonographer will check for a variety of things to assess the growth and development of the baby.

Here are some of the things they will look for:

Baby's heartbeat: The sonographer will check the baby's heartbeat to ensure it's within the normal range.

Baby's size and weight: They will measure the baby's head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length to estimate the baby's size and weight.

Baby's anatomy: The sonographer will check the baby's organs, including the brain, heart, lungs, stomach, kidneys, and bladder, to ensure they are developing normally.

Placenta position: The sonographer will check the position of the placenta to ensure it's not blocking the cervix or causing any other issues.

Amniotic fluid levels: They will check the level of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby to ensure it's within the normal range.

Umbilical cord: The sonographer will check the umbilical cord to ensure it's not wrapped around the baby's neck or causing any other issues.

Baby's movements: They will observe the baby's movements to ensure they are active and moving as expected.

The 20-week baby scan is a crucial point in the pregnancy where the sonographer can detect any potential issues and provide important information about the baby's health and development.

The Best time to start The Wise Hippo Birthing Programme is anytime after your 20 week scan.

Starting a hypnobirthing class at 20 weeks pregnant can be a great idea for many expectant parents.

Here are a few reasons why:

Sufficient time to learn and practice: 

Hypnobirthing involves learning relaxation and breathing techniques, visualization, and affirmations that require time and practice to master. Starting a class at 20 weeks gives you enough time to learn and practice the techniques, which can help you feel more confident and prepared for your birth.

Your teacher can address any concerns early: 

Starting hypnobirthing classes early in your pregnancy can give you ample time to address any concerns or fears you may have about birth. It can also help you learn how to manage any pregnancy-related stress and anxiety that may arise.

Benefits for baby: 

Studies have shown that hypnobirthing can lead to better birth outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Starting early can give you more time to reap the benefits of hypnobirthing for your baby's health and well-being.

Flexibility: 

Starting a hypnobirthing class at 20plus weeks gives you the flexibility to choose a class schedule that fits your needs and availability. You can also start practicing the techniques at home and incorporate them into your daily routine.

Starting a hypnobirthing class at 20 weeks pregnant can provide you with enough time to learn and practice the techniques, address any concerns, and reap the benefits for both you and your baby.

Wishing you 'The Right Birth On The Day'.

The Wise Hippo