Ultrasound in Pregnancy: Safe & Essential Scan

Ultrasound during pregnancy is a safe and painless procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the unborn baby and the mother’s uterus. These images provide doctors with valuable information about the baby’s growth, health, and the progress of the pregnancy.

Why is Ultrasound Done in Pregnancy?

• Monitoring Fetal Growth: Ultrasound measures the baby's size, weight, and physical development, ensuring healthy growth.

• Estimating Gestational Age: The first trimester ultrasound helps determine the fetus's age and estimate the expected delivery date.

• Detecting Birth Defects: Doctors check the baby’s heart, brain, spine, and other organs for any congenital abnormalities.

• Identifying Multiple Pregnancies: Ultrasound can easily confirm if there is more than one baby.

• Checking Placenta and Amniotic Fluid: The condition of the placenta and amniotic fluid is examined for any concerns.

• Preparing for Delivery: Ultrasound assesses the baby's position and readiness for birth to assist in planning.

When are Ultrasounds Performed?

• First Trimester (8-14 weeks): Confirms heartbeat and gestational age.

• Second Trimester (18-22 weeks): Detailed anatomy scan to assess organ development.

• Third Trimester (28-32 weeks): Monitors fetal weight and growth progression.

Procedure
During an ultrasound, a device emits sound waves into the body, which bounce back to create images of the baby and uterus. The procedure is entirely painless.

Benefits of Ultrasound

• Secure and safe for mother and fetus.

• Completely painless.

• Widely accessible and affordable.

• Provides detailed insight into fetal and maternal health.

Ultrasound is an essential part of prenatal care, helping ensure both the baby and mother remain healthy throughout pregnancy.