What is Ultrasound During Pregnancy?
Ultrasound during pregnancy is an ultrasound examination performed at various stages of pregnancy to assess the condition of the fetus, uterus, and other organs. This method provides clear images that help the doctor evaluate fetal development, its position, and detect possible pathologies at early stages.
When Should Ultrasound Be Done During Pregnancy?
Ultrasound is performed at different stages of pregnancy and serves several important functions:
- 1st Trimester (up to 12 weeks) – the first ultrasound to confirm pregnancy, assess the number of fetuses, their position, check for heartbeat, and general condition.
- 2nd Trimester (13 to 24 weeks) – the second ultrasound to assess fetal development, placenta and amniotic fluid condition, and detect any possible abnormalities.
- 3rd Trimester (25 to 40 weeks) – the final ultrasound to assess fetal position, its size, readiness for labor, and possible complications (e.g., preeclampsia, placenta issues).
Why is Ultrasound Necessary During Pregnancy?
Ultrasound during pregnancy helps to:
- Confirm pregnancy – in early stages, ultrasound helps to accurately confirm pregnancy and assess its development.
- Detect possible abnormalities – diagnosing possible abnormalities such as multiple pregnancies, fetal developmental defects, or placenta issues.
- Monitor fetal development – regular check-ups allow monitoring of fetal growth and detecting any developmental delays or other issues.
- Evaluate the condition of the uterus and placenta – ultrasound helps to assess the condition of the uterus, placenta thickness, and position, which is important for the proper course of pregnancy.
- Prevent possible complications – ultrasound can detect potential problems early and allow timely intervention to address them.
Advantages of Ultrasound During Pregnancy
- Safety – ultrasound is a safe procedure that has no harmful effects on the mother's and fetus's health.
- Diagnostic accuracy – ultrasound provides clear images that help the doctor accurately assess the fetal condition and identify potential problems.
- Availability – ultrasound is available at any stage of pregnancy and is painless, without the need for hospitalization.
- Non-invasiveness – the method is non-invasive, minimizing risks for both the mother and the baby.
How is Ultrasound Performed During Pregnancy?
Ultrasound during pregnancy is performed using an ultrasound machine that generates sound waves which reflect off the tissues of the body. The doctor applies special gel on the woman's abdomen and moves a sensor over the skin to obtain images of the fetus and internal organs. The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes and requires no special preparation.
Schedule Your Ultrasound During Pregnancy for Accurate Diagnosis
If you are expecting a baby, schedule an ultrasound at our clinic for timely monitoring of your baby’s development and your health. We ensure comfortable conditions and accurate diagnostics at all stages of pregnancy.