The entire journey of pregnancy is filled with enthusiasm, hope, and lots of dreams. Watching the baby’s scans is like a cherished wish to sneak a peek into their lives. However, at times, things might not go as planned, and finding out that something may be wrong is one of the hardest challenges any individual can face at the onset of parenthood.
If you have been told something surprising in the scans recently, let me tell you it is perfectly normal to feel paranoid, perplexed, or anxious, and that is precisely why I have put this article together, to help you calm down, figure things out, decide the following steps to take, and most importantly, regain your focus. There is support in every way, and I want you to know that you are never on this path alone.
1. Don’t Panic – Take a Deep Breath
So first, and foremost, go ahead and take a moment to breathe.
When parents receive unexpected news during a scan, it is common to jump to the worst conclusions, as it’s certainly difficult to fathom. However, we need to realise that not every unusual scan outcome indicates a deeper issue. There are instances when just more data is needed, or something just needs to be observed closely over an extended period.
Most concerns identified during early or mid-pregnancy scans tend to resolve on their own as the fetus develops.
In some instances, it may simply be a part of the normal range. Some results require additional investigations, not because your infant is clearly sick, but because physicians wish to make sure everything is fine.
That said, try not to reach conclusions too early or start looking for answers online, which can increase anxiety. Give yourself some time to process the information, remember that the phone call was only the beginning, and more information is yet to come.
2. Formulate Questions And Note Them
Finally, emotion and hectic schedules do not allow for lucid thought. If receiving unexpected news at a scan appointment, note the information to prevent future headaches in trying to remember important details. Ask staff at the appointment if partners can listen to them talk, so as to say discussions are not feigned for recording meant for others.
Here are some helpful questions to consider:
What, with all precision, did you lay eyes on during the scan?
Does there always exist a possibility that this means a problem?
What actions will follow these events?
Will I require further scans or additional examinations?
When can information be expected?
If a recipient of the answer dies and comes up with more questions, explore alternative methods of reaching the clinic, their midwife or the respective associate of concern, provided they part ways with search engines.
It is perfectly acceptable to ask questions. You are entitled to receive help and be adequately guided in this journey.
3. Schedule a Follow-Up or Private Reassurance Scan
As a part of your NHS care, you may be offered a follow-up scan after an unexpected finding. These scans are usually done after some time has passed so that the baby has time to grow, aiding in providing more accurate information.
Nonetheless, the wait can be unbearable and emotionally draining. If anxiety is at the forefront of your mind, you might want to consider going for a private reassurance scan.
A private reassurance scan can:
It allows you to see your baby in a calmer environment.
Allow healthcare professionals to monitor the baby’s heartbeat and movement.
Review any previously noted observations for further evaluation.
Provide consolation during emotional turmoil.
Though private scans do not substitute for medical examinations or specialist care, they do help fill the gaps most people feel during times of uncertainty, confusion, or even added concern. It is best to have a trusted clinic in mind that houses competent medical personnel who effortlessly explain everything step by step.
4. Withhold Judgement Until A Conclusion Is Reached
It is only human to want instantaneous answers.
But in a lot of situations, other scans, tests, or evaluations are needed before anything can be determined.
Here are examples of events that may require additional steps:
Measurements such as limbs or organs that are undersized might present peculiar issues.
Obscured images as a result of the baby’s movement or other circumstances.
Changes in the minor amounts of fluids or soft markers may or may not be significant.
These circumstances are often referred to as a situation that is “inconclusive.” And while such terms might sound difficult to hear, it does not a lot of the time, necessarily indicate a fundamental issue. They simply indicate the healthcare team is trying to ensure everything is functioning as it should be.
Resist the temptation of looking on the internet for a solution with no information, as every pregnancy is unique. It is prudent to wait to ascertain outcomes and discuss them with a medical professional.
5. Rely On Your Learning Support Systems
Surprising results from a scan can bring about a whirlwind of mixed emotions- sadness, fear, confusion, guilt. Even anger might set in. Not to worry, all the emotions described are healthy, but unfortunately, you don’t need to suffer in silence.
Reach out to your partner or a close friend.
Talk about your feelings with your midwife.
Connect with support groups for parents in similar situations.
Think about talking to a counsellor or a therapist who specialises in pregnancy-related topics.
Don’t think that needing support makes you weak. It actually takes a lot of strength to recognise when you need help. Pregnancy can be physically and emotionally challenging. It helps to go through difficult times when there are people who care about you.
6. Protect your emotional and mental well-being as well
While waiting for the issue to be resolved, it’s your responsibility to ensure that you are in a good place. Understandably, anxiety and worry are common during difficult moments, but they can interact with your quality of life. Your overall well-being can be impacted through the following:
Take short walks or get fresh air every day.
Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.
Practice journaling, even if it’s for a couple of minutes.
Direct your attention toward what is within your control at this moment.
Focus on the positive and celebrate every little detail, such as hearing the baby’s heartbeat.
Experiencing a mix of hope and worry is not out of the ordinary. The most important thing is to appreciate the chaos that life brings.
7. Trust the Process and the Professionals
Medical scans serve as a diagnostic measure for detecting complications early on. Early detection can help plan, treat, or monitor actions that need to be taken. In many cases, expecting parents are greeted with results that are far from straightforward, and later learn that their baby is, in fact, perfectly healthy.
Even in cases where a plausible concern is detected, rest assured, the healthcare system is well-equipped with support and options these days. With the rapidly improving prenatal healthcare, rest assured, whatever comes your way, you will not be left unsupported.
Focus on what is within your circle of concern and let the experts handle the rest. Give yourself time to focus on self-care and emotional healing while they focus on what they do best.
Final Thoughts
Hearing the words “something unexpected was seen” during a pregnancy scan can feel alarming. Knowing that you are not traversing this path alone can ease the anxiety. Also, it does not mean something has to be wrong, and even if the situation requires further monitoring, there is help available.
So, if your scan reveals something unexpected, here’s what you need to do:
Focus on taking things one step at a time. Avoiding panicking is key.
Make sure you come up with short and specific questions and put on record the details provided to you.
Think about undergoing a private reassurance scan in case you feel anxious.
Try to avoid forming conclusions until the entire picture has been revealed.
Have a support system that includes people who care about you.
Be aware of your emotional state, and ensure that you do not disregard your feelings.
Have faith in the process and the health care team attending to you.
Bear in mind that this is a treatment journey and not a checkpoint. Whether the outcome requires more support or is within the standard expectation, remember that you’re doing great, and that’s sufficient.
