Why Lighting, Angles, and Your Baby’s Position Affect Scan Clarity

BySamradni Pradhan
Updated: 30 Dec 2025, 12:30 pm
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Renu Caprihan,

You may think that an ultrasound scan always gives clear images of your baby, but that is not the case every time. Some images may appear blurry, incomplete, or inconclusive for various reasons. These include lighting, scanning angles, and your baby’s position inside the womb. All of these play a major role in how clear your ultrasound scan will be. You can better prepare for scans by understanding each factor and taking measures to avoid what is within your control.

Pregatips
Imagine going to your regular ultrasound scan to get a clear view of your baby, only to find them in an awkward position to get a clear image. You may feel stressed if it is something you were not prepared for. However, this situation is normal and nothing to worry about.
In this article:
A clear ultrasound scan image requires several physical factors to work. It means the lighting conditions in the room, the angle of the ultrasound probe, and the position of your baby have to be ideal. Addressing these aspects during the scan can yield better images.

Why Does the Scan Room Lighting Matter?

Lighting in the room does not directly affect the ultrasound image, but it does affect your ability to see it on the screen. How does room lighting affect screen visibility? Bright lights or screen reflections can make the monitor appear washed out, leading to the following:
  • Reduce contrast
  • Make details harder to see
  • Affect your experience of the scan
Most clinics dim the room lights to help you and the doctor see the images on the screen clearly. Lighting is crucial during a detailed scan, such as the anomaly scan performed around 18-22 weeks.

Why Do Angles Make Such a Big Difference?

Ultrasound scans work by sending sound waves into your abdomen. They create an image as they bounce back. What happens when the angle is not right? When the probe is not placed at the correct angle, it may lead to the following situations:
  • The sound waves may not reflect properly
  • Some structures may be faint
  • Certain details may get hidden behind bones or organs
For example, a sonographer needs to find the angle to look at your baby’s heart. They may place the probe so that the sound waves can pass through fluid rather than bone. Why is finding the right angle challenging?
  • Every baby sits differently inside the womb
  • The amount of amniotic fluid varies
  • The placenta’s position can block some views
The sonographer may move the probe around several times or ask you to change your position for these reasons.

How Does Your Baby’s Position Affect Scan Clarity?

The most common reason for unclear images is your baby’s position. What if your baby is facing down or toward your back? In this position, the spine blocks many details of your baby, so it is impossible to get a clear view of some features.
  • Baby’s face
  • Heart chambers
  • Nose and lips
  • Hands and fingers
What if the baby curls up or crosses their arms/legs? This position can hide vital body parts.
  • Facial structure
  • Limbs
  • Gender visibility
How common is this? This position is quite common because at least 25–35% of scans require additional time or repositioning because of the baby’s posture.

Does Amniotic Fluid Affect Scan Clarity Too?

Amniotic fluid acts like a window for sound waves. What happens when fluid levels are lower?
  • The image may look grainy
  • Sound waves travel with more difficulty
  • It is harder to see smaller details
On the other hand, healthy fluid levels produce clearer images.

What Can You Do to Improve Scan Clarity?

Scan clarity is not in your control, but you can still try some of the following tips.
  • Drink enough water in the days before your scan. Proper hydration increases the amount of fluid around the baby.
  • Eat something light 20–30 minutes before the scan, as this can encourage the baby to move in some cases.
  • Walk for a few minutes before entering the scan room to help the baby change position.
  • Follow the sonographer’s instructions, such as turning to your side or holding your breath briefly.

When Should You Repeat a Scan?

  • The baby’s position blocks important measurements
  • Structural details are unclear
  • The sonographer needs better angles to gather correct data
A repeat scan is common and does not indicate a problem with your baby.

What To Do Next: Quick Checklist

  • Stay hydrated in the days leading up to your scan.
  • Arrive with a relaxed mind and body.
  • Inform your sonographer about any discomfort.
  • Involve your partner in the scan to get their emotional support.
  • Understand that unclear scans are normal and not a sign of complications.

Emotional & Social Aspects

Going for scans can be exciting, even though it is a medical requirement. You may feel sad if the image is unclear, but that is okay. Sharing this experience with your partner or loved ones can ease your worries. Remember that the position and angles are temporary challenges. What matters most is that your baby is growing well.

Lighting, angles, and your baby’s position are all critical factors to get a clear ultrasound scan image. They are completely normal parts of pregnancy and beyond your control. You can approach your scans with a calm mind by understanding them. So, do not worry if the sonographer asks you to wait for a while or come back. It means they want a clear image to provide accurate information about your baby.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Why Lighting, Angles, and Your Baby’s Position Affect Scan Clarity

  1. Why does my baby not move during the scan?
    Babies follow their own schedule when they are inside the womb. So, they may be either sleeping or curled up in a comfortable position during the scan.
  2. Can drinking water just before the scan improve the image?
    Good hydration over 1-2 days before the scan can help achieve clearer images by improving fluid levels. However, drinking it just before the scan may not be so useful.
  3. Is it normal to need multiple scans for clear pictures?
    A repeat scan is not a problem, as many parents need it for a clear image due to their baby’s position or angle.

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How we reviewed this article
Our team continuously monitors the health and wellness space to create relevant content for you. Every article is reviewed by medical experts to ensure accuracy.

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