Ultrasound Fetal Well Being(FWB)

A FWB (fetal well being) ultrasound is a pregnancy scan done later in gestation to assess the baby’s health and growth. It evaluates fetal size and estimated weight, amniotic fluid volume, placental position and function, fetal movements and heart rate, and often Doppler blood flow. Findings identify growth restriction, placental problems or other concerns and guide monitoring or delivery planning.

A Full White Blood (FWB) test — essentially a Complete Blood Count (CBC) — costs roughly ₹150–₹500 in Indian private labs. In the United States, commercial lab prices typically range from about $10–$50 (higher without insurance). In the UK the NHS covers it when clinically requested; private testing runs about £10–£60.

During a fetal well‑being ultrasound you’ll lie on an exam table while gel is applied to your abdomen and a transducer is moved to image the baby. Expect measurements of growth, head/abdominal/femur size, fetal heart rate and movements, breathing motions, amniotic fluid volume and placental position. Doppler blood‑flow may be used. The scan is painless, takes 20–45 minutes, and results are explained afterward.

FWB in pregnancy stands for "fetal well‑being" — an assessment of the unborn baby’s health. It includes monitoring fetal movements, heart rate patterns (non‑stress/CTG), ultrasound evaluation of growth and amniotic fluid, and Doppler studies when indicated. Routine antenatal checks and maternal kick counts help detect problems early so clinicians can plan further testing or intervention if needed.

Fetal well‑being scans (ultrasound, Doppler and MRI) are considered safe when medically indicated and performed by trained professionals. There is no proven harm from diagnostic ultrasound at standard settings, but unnecessary or prolonged exposure should be avoided. Doppler use in early pregnancy is cautious. MRI without contrast is generally safe; gadolinium is avoided unless essential. Follow clinician guidance.

Ultrasound can usually determine fetal sex during the anatomy scan around 18–22 weeks when genitalia are well developed. Earlier “nub” assessments at 11–14 weeks are less reliable. Accuracy depends on fetal position, gestational age, maternal body habitus, and sonographer experience; if unclear, a repeat scan later improves accuracy. For definitive genetic sexing, noninvasive prenatal testing or diagnostic tests (CVS/amniocentesis) are available.