What is pregnancy ultrasound?
Pregnancy ultrasound, generally known as sonogram, is a diagnostic test done during the prenatal period. This test uses sound waves to create a visual image of the ovary, the baby, placenta and the uterus. Although, it does not harm the baby or the mom-to-be, yet it is recommended to get it done in recognized clinics. With the improvement in science and technology, the 3D and 4D ultrasound is being used in many hospitals. The 3D ultrasound provides the photos of the baby to keep as a memory whereas 4D can diagnose the abnormalities in the baby.Ultrasound has become the most effective means of determining the child’s growth, progress and health.
Why do you need pregnancy ultrasound?
It is needed for the following reasons:
1. Determination of pregnancy
One can test the pregnancy on their own by the various tools available in the market. But you can’t be sure of that. Whereas ultrasound is the sure means to determine the pregnancy.
2. Measurement of the baby’s size
Ultrasound along with the determination of pregnancy, also determines the size of the baby whether the growth is of 3 weeks or 10 weeks.
3. Checks the baby’s heart beat
It checks the baby’s heart beat whether it is functioning normally or not.
4. Position of the baby
It confirms whether the position of the baby is in right direction, in order to avoid any complications during delivery.
5. Single or twins
It also provides the information regarding the number of the babies in mother’s womb. If it is twins, then the doctors can look for any complications during birth.
6. Physical abnormalities
The doctors try to find out any kind of physical abnormalities and look out for an early treatment, if detected any.
7. Due date
The doctors try to determine when the baby is due. It is a new trend to deliver the baby on specific date and time.
When to have pregnancy ultrasound scan?
It totally depends on the recommendation of the doctors. The sooner the test is done, the better it is. It should be done during the early stage and should be continued at regular intervals till the delivery. Someone who had a previous miscarriage or is above 30 years of age or had complications during first baby or bleeding in the first week can go for the ultrasound at early stage. It can be done after 6 weeks or 10 weeks. It is called early scan. It is a vaginal scan rather the abdominal scan as it provides a clear view of the baby during the early stage. One can also go for the dating scan which can be done on the 10th week or 14th week. It helps in determining the due date of the baby. Scanning can also be done during the 3rd or 4th month to get the clear view of the baby and also to determine the number of the babies, the mother is carrying.
What results can you expect from pregnancy ultrasound?
It helps in monitoring the baby’s progress by keeping a regular check on its growth. One can also be in a better position to take medical help incase of any complications at an early stage. As it is a device which uses hand- held transducer to move over the skin after applying a lotion, it does not harm either the baby or the mother, other than a bit of itching in the skin.
Now, as one can hear the baby’s heart beat, it gives an immense pleasure to the parents and their family. It also gives a sense of security and satisfaction to them that their child is safe and growing at healthy condition. Doctors are also assured that the child’s heart beat is normal. Lastly, but not the least, it is a moment of joy and delight for the parents and family members. With the ultrasound they can see their child growing and can enjoy every moment of it.
