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The 20-week ultrasound, also known as the mid-pregnancy anatomical scan or anomaly scan, plays a crucial role in assessing fetal anatomy and growth. This ultrasound provides a detailed examination of the developing fetus, allowing healthcare providers to evaluate critical aspects such as the size of the fetus, the structure of the brain and spine, the presence of organs, limb development, and overall growth patterns. This comprehensive assessment can help identify any potential congenital anomalies or developmental issues early on, enabling timely interventions if necessary.

While determining the baby's sex can often be done during this ultrasound, it is not the primary purpose. Monitoring maternal health could involve other assessments and imaging outside the scope of this specific scan, and while it is essential to evaluate maternal well-being throughout pregnancy, the 20-week ultrasound primarily focuses on fetal development. Similarly, checking for signs of preterm labor typically occurs through different clinical assessments and is not the focus of the mid-pregnancy scan. Therefore, the main significance of the 20-week ultrasound lies in its ability to provide a detailed view of the fetus's anatomical development and growth.