Ultrasound Head Measurements
QUESTION
Dear Ms. Ultrasound,
At my 23 week scan, my measurements for baby's head were measuring large. They are bringing me back next week to check again.
BPD = 63mm
HC = 227 mm
Is this something to worry about?
ANSWER
The measurements you gave me for the head are about 2 weeks ahead of your supposed 23 week pregnancy. What you did not say was how big the abdomen and the femur(thigh bone) was. If those measured 23 weeks and the head was bigger then you will be monitored at short intervals for growth and for any other problems with the baby's anatomy.
From the sound of your letter it seems there was a slight discrepancy only with the head, with no other problems. Usually in a case like this when you return for the follow up ultrasound, all is fine. This growth difference happen on occasion without any real problems. Please write back after the follow up ultrasound if the problem has not resolved and we can talk more in depth about why this might happen.
For now just try and let this info go and connect with your baby.
With Regards,
-- Jane RDMS
Jane Foley
Jane Foley has worked as a Sonographer (Ultrasound Technologist) since 1979. Jane has lived and worked in many parts of the world including Saudi Arabia. She is a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer or RDMS. She pulls a wealth of information from her experience in the field of Radiology and her interactions with such a broad cross-section of cultures she has visited. She now makes her home on the island of Maui with her English husband, Michael.
