An ultrasound is a big step for expecting parents. Knowing that the mother is carrying a little bundle of joy, an ultrasound is an opportunity parents have to get a glimpse of the unborn baby.
There are various reasons for having an ultrasound. A pregnant woman can expect to have several ultrasounds throughout the pregnancy so that the doctor can ensure the fetus is developing normally.
What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a diagnostic exam that uses high-pitched sound waves to create an image of internal body structures. In the case of pregnancy, it is aimed at monitoring the development of the fetus while in the mother’s womb and to confirm the due date.
An ultrasound is performed in a medical facility. A technician will use a wand-like transducer that emits the sound waves, and it will be rubbed over the mother’s belly.
The practitioner can print out screen shots of the ultrasound scan for the parents to take home as souvenirs. The image produced by the ultrasound is called a sonogram.
First-Trimester Ultrasound
The first-trimester ultrasound is done for a number of reasons. These may include verifying the dates of the pregnancy, checking whether there are multiple fetuses present in the womb, and identifying the placental structure and its stability.
Other reasons for a first-trimester ultrasound may be an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage. While examining the baby, the ultrasound will be used to examine the uterus and mother’s pelvis’ anatomical structure. This is done to ensure that no physical problems would endanger the fetus or mother during birth and to verify that the fetus does not present any abnormalities.
Ultrasound Scan in Mid-Trimester
This ultrasound is sometimes called the 18- to 20-week scan, and it is done to do the following:
- Verify that the initial ultrasound’s findings were correct
- Display the fetal development and growth
- Show whether everything is developing normally
- Measure the size of the baby
- Check all the fetus’ organs
- Check the presence and amount of amniotic fluid
- Verify the location of the placenta and its stability
- Determine the baby’s gender (if the parents wish)
- See the face, hands, feet, and some of its organs
Types of Ultrasounds
There are two main types of fetal ultrasounds: a transabdominal ultrasound and a transvaginal ultrasound. The transabdominal ultrasound is done over the belly, by placing conductive gel over the mother’s abdomen and then rolling the transducer over the abdominal area to capture sonograms.
The transvaginal ultrasound is usually done very early in pregnancy. It is usually done only when a transabdominal ultrasound didn’t provide enough information.
Ultrasound Center in Palm Beach
If you and your partner have been blessed with pregnancy, ultrasound scans will be necessary for certain reasons. There are recommendations that should be followed regarding the number and frequency of ultrasounds during a pregnancy.
If you need to schedule an ultrasound or other diagnostic scan, contact Independent Imaging today by calling (561) 795-5558 or schedule an exam online. We look forward to helping you get a glimpse of your unborn baby!
