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The morphology scan, done at 18 to 22 weeks, is a detailed check of your baby's anatomy, growth, placenta and fluid. It is one of the most important ultrasounds in pregnancy.
Also called: 20 week scan, Anatomy scan, Mid-pregnancy scan, Morph scan, Second trimester ultrasound
Find a clinic for your morphology scan
102 clinics offer bulk billing for ultrasound — eligibility varies
Where to get a morphology scan
104 clinics across Australia on Radly offer ultrasound.
Clinics for a morphology scan on Radly
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What is a morphology scan?
By around 20 weeks the baby is big enough for a thorough look at their structures. The sonographer works systematically through the brain, face, spine, heart, stomach, kidneys, limbs and more, and measures the baby to check growth matches the dates.
The scan also records where the placenta sits, the amount of amniotic fluid and, at many clinics, the length of the cervix. If the placenta is low, a follow-up scan later in pregnancy is common and usually shows it has moved up.
Because it is detailed, the morphology scan takes longer than earlier scans. Sometimes the baby's position makes a view difficult and you may be asked to walk around or come back for a short extra look.
Why your doctor might request a morphology scan
- Routine check of the baby's anatomy
- Measuring growth against your due date
- Locating the placenta
- Checking amniotic fluid and the cervix
- Finding out the baby's sex, if you want to
Morphology scan: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your morphology scan
- Book ahead: morphology appointments are in high demand and the window is fixed.
- Usually no full bladder is needed, but follow the clinic's instructions.
- Wear comfortable two-piece clothing.
- Tell the sonographer at the start whether you want to know the sex.
How long it takes: About 45–60 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
A referral from your GP, obstetrician or midwife is needed for a Medicare rebate. Some clinics bulk bill the morphology scan, but many charge an out-of-pocket gap because of its length and detail. The clinic confirms billing when it accepts your booking request.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
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Find clinics near you for your morphology scan and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
Morphology scan FAQs
Can I find out the sex at the morphology scan?
Usually, yes, if the baby's position allows. Let the sonographer know early whether you want to find out, or if you would like it written down instead.
What is the best week for the morphology scan?
Most are done between 19 and 21 weeks. Your doctor or midwife will usually suggest a date on the referral.
What if something needs a closer look?
Sometimes a repeat or specialist scan is suggested, often just because of the baby's position. Your doctor or midwife will explain any findings and next steps.
How do I book a morphology scan online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select Ultrasound as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get a morphology scan?
Appointments for ultrasound are usually 1–3 days, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
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