An ultrasound scan in pregnancy is a visual examination based on the reflection of uneven waves from tissues of varying densities. The examination assesses the health and development of your baby. This examination has no known side effects and can be performed at any stage of pregnancy.
When should echoscopy be performed during pregnancy?
- To confirm that you are pregnant;
- To check for ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, or other early pregnancy complications;
- To determine your baby's gestational age and due date;
- To check your baby's growth, movements, and heartbeat;
- To evaluate your pelvic organs, such as your uterus, ovaries, and cervix;
- To evaluate how much amniotic fluid you have;
- To check the location of the placenta;
- To evaluate your baby's position in the uterus;
- Detect problems with the baby's organs, muscles, or bones.
How many ultrasounds should be performed during pregnancy?
Most pregnant women are recommended to have 2 ultrasounds during pregnancy. However, the number and timing of ultrasounds depend on the condition of the fetus and possible pregnancy complications.
When is the first ultrasound scan performed during pregnancy?
The first ultrasound scan is usually performed between the 11th and 13th week of pregnancy, but sometimes patients undergo an early ultrasound scan, which can take place as early as the seventh or eighth week of pregnancy. Doctors perform early ultrasound examinations transvaginally (transvaginal ultrasound). The first ultrasound scan:
- Confirms pregnancy;
- Checks for multiple fetuses;
- Measures the size of the fetus;
- Helps confirm the gestational age and date of delivery.
When is the second ultrasound scan performed during pregnancy?
The second ultrasound scan is usually performed between the 18th and 20th week of pregnancy. During this examination, your obstetrician can determine the sex of your baby, detect congenital disorders such as cleft palate, or identify serious diseases related to your baby's brain, heart, bones, or kidneys. If your pregnancy is going well and there are no complications, the 20-week ultrasound may be the last ultrasound you have during your pregnancy. However, if your doctor finds a problem during the 20-week ultrasound, he or she may order additional ultrasounds. Some of these reasons include:
- Diseases of the ovaries, uterus, cervix, or other pelvic organs;
- Your baby is small for its gestational age;
- The placenta is low-lying or detached;
- You have too much amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios);
- You have too little amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios);
- You have conditions such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia;
- Your baby has congenital abnormalities.
When can the baby be seen during an ultrasound?
A doctor can detect an embryo as early as the sixth week of pregnancy during an ultrasound scan. The sex of the baby is not visible during an ultrasound scan until approximately 18–20 weeks.
What are the two main types of ultrasound during pregnancy?
- Transvaginal ultrasound (through the vagina) – in early pregnancy, this test helps to detect the fetal heartbeat or determine how far along you are in your pregnancy.
- Transabdominal ultrasound (through the abdominal wall) – this test is used after approximately 12 weeks of pregnancy.
Your doctor may recommend other types of ultrasound tests:
- Doppler ultrasound – this test checks how your baby's blood is flowing through the blood vessels;
- Fetal echocardiogram – this test examines the size, shape, function, and structure of your baby's heart.
How to prepare for an ultrasound during pregnancy?
No special preparation is required for this test.
What happens during an ultrasound scan?
During a pregnancy ultrasound, you will need to undress to the waist and lie down on the examination table. The doctor will help you get into the most comfortable position and, using a clear water-based gel, will begin the ultrasound through the abdominal wall with a transducer, which will transfer all images to the ultrasound screen. The doctor can save the images and print them if necessary. An ultrasound scan during pregnancy usually takes about 15-30 minutes.
What happens after the ultrasound?
After the ultrasound during pregnancy, the doctor will review and interpret the images, and all information will be saved on the E. health portal. After evaluating the ultrasound data, the doctor will inform you if you need further tests, procedures, or treatment.
When will you find out the results of the ultrasound scan?
You should find out the results of the ultrasound scan at the end of your visit.
Are there any risks or restrictions associated with ultrasound scans during pregnancy?
An ultrasound scan is based on the reflection of uneven waves from tissues of varying densities, so there is no radiation exposure. Studies have shown that ultrasound scans are safe during pregnancy. There are no harmful side effects for you or your baby.
