What is a TIFFA scan and why is it important during pregnancy

Being pregnant is a joyful time. It is a time when the entire family looks forward to the impending happiness. But it is also a time when everyone from the expecting mother to the family members are extremely cautious about each and every test and diagnosis pertaining to the baby. Ever heard of the TIFFA scan?

Amongst the many important tests during pregnancy is also a TIFFA scan. A TIFFA scan or a Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies is also popularly known as fetal anomaly scan.

Why is a TIFFA scan important?

A TIFFA scan is one of the important scans conducted during pregnancy. It is important because it detects any congenital abnormalities in the growing fetus.

• It examines both the internal and external anatomy of the fetus. It helps detect any major effects as well as smaller chromosomal abnormalities and any genetic syndrome.
• The scan is to be conducted on all pregnant women even though they may be in the low-risk category.
• Those who have a family history have a higher risk and those who have had an infection or were under certain drugs are also more prone to risks.
• However, the scan is important to be performed on all women because a lot of fetal abnormalities have been found in the low-risk group as well.

When is a TIFFA scan performed?

It is usually performed between 18-23 weeks of pregnancy and ultrasound is the main diagnostic tool that is used to detect congenital abnormalities.

It involves a detailed scanning and examination of the fetus for any abnormalities. It can be a 3-dimensional scan or 4 -dimensional and should be carried out in a high precision lab.

The Cost

The cost varies from place to place depending on the facility you choose. However, on an average, the cost for a TIFFA scan in India should range anywhere between Rs 2500 -3500.

What you need to do?

In case the radiologist performing the scan discovers any anomaly they will report it. And you will be asked to discuss it with your doctor.

A fetal medicine expert will analyse the extent of the significance the reported anomaly can have on the baby. If the need be then the couple may be referred for counselling too.

Important things to know

1. It is always reassuring to know whatever you can about the well-being of the baby growing inside of you. Here are some of the important things a TIFFA scan would tell you
2. It will tell you that your baby's internal organs are growing normally
3. It will check the fetal movements and monitor if the growth of the baby is normal
4. It will detect birth defects if any in your baby
5. It will check the level of amniotic fluid
6. Check if there are any indications of chromosomal abnormalities
7. Check the position of the placenta

Read: Everything you need to know about Posterior placenta during pregnancy