At what gestational age is the first anatomy ultrasound typically performed?

The first anatomy ultrasound is typically performed between 18 and 20 weeks of gestation. This timing corresponds to the second trimester, which is crucial for detailed examination of the fetus's anatomical structures. During this ultrasound, healthcare providers assess various aspects of fetal development, including organ development, growth measurements, and anatomy such as the brain, spine, heart, and limbs.

Furthermore, this ultrasound often allows for the identification of potential abnormalities and enables the parents to find out the sex of the baby if they choose. Performing this scan too early, as would be the case with the other gestational ages mentioned, can lead to insufficient visualization of fetal structures because they are not fully formed, which is why the anatomy ultrasound is specifically scheduled within this 18 to 20-week window.