Ultrasound scanning is carried in different stages of pregnancy to check the development of baby. It uses sound waves to create a picture of your baby in your womb. The power of the sound waves is very low so that it is safe for both mother and the baby.
No special preparation is required for ultrasound scan. Scans will mostly be carried out by a sonographer. Partner or bystander is usually allowed during scanning. Complications in pregnancy can be detected by ultrasound. Sex of the baby can be determined during the scan but this depends on the policy of the hospital. An ultrasound cannot detect all problems a baby may have.
There are two major scans that are done during your pregnancy. Rest all scans depend upon the requirement. Your doctor will advise you if they are required. Sometimes they are carried out during the end of your pregnancy to understand if everything is fine or there is any complication.
Your First Ultrasound Scan:
When is first ultrasound scan done?
First ultrasound scan is done between 8-14 weeks of pregnancy. The first scan is also called dating scan.
What you need to know about it?
Ultrasound is a painless diagnosis and is done according to the advice of the doctor or midwife. Drink few glasses of water before scanning because full bladder can echo a clear picture of your baby. You may be able to see the image of your baby and also its heart beat.
Why it is done?
In the first stage of pregnancy ultrasound scanning can be used to confirm pregnancy, check the development of the fetus inside the womb, check for multiple pregnancies and to confirm the due date etc. It can also detect if it is a miscarriage.
Your Second Ultrasound:
When is second ultrasound scan done?
Your second ultrasound scan will be usually done between 18-20 weeks of your pregnancy. Your doctor will give you an appointment accordingly.
What you need to know about it?
An ultrasound scan normally takes 20-30 minutes which is assessed by a radiologist who is specially trained. The reports are sent to the primary physician who share the results with you. Sometimes, according to your baby position, your radiologist is unable to record everything clearly. In that case, they may advise you to come back again. In case of any abnormality, your doctor will advise you with the solutions.
Why it is done?
In this stage it is possible to check the fetus in more detail such as organ development. Structural abnormalities can also be detected during this stage. You can also ask your doctor about the sex of your baby at this point.
