Pregnancy ultrasounds are a standard part of prenatal care, offering a non-invasive way to monitor the development of a fetus and the health of the mother. This imaging technique uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of the inside of the body. For expectant parents, these examinations provide the first glimpses of their developing baby and supply medical professionals at fertility clinics with valuable information throughout the course of the pregnancy.
What Is a Pregnancy Ultrasound?
A pregnancy ultrasound is a medical imaging procedure used during gestation. It uses a device called a transducer that sends sound waves through the body, which then bounce off tissues, fluids, and bones. A computer translates these returning sound waves into images displayed on a monitor. This method does not use radiation, making it a commonly used diagnostic tool in a fertility clinic. There are several types of ultrasounds, each used for specific purposes at different stages of pregnancy.
Transvaginal UltrasoundÂ
This type may be used during early pregnancy. A small, wand-like transducer is placed into the vagina to produce very clear images of the uterus, ovaries, and developing embryo. It can help confirm a heartbeat and check for ectopic or multiple pregnancies.
Transabdominal UltrasoundÂ
This may be the most recognized type of ultrasound; it involves moving a transducer across the abdomen. It is commonly performed after the first trimester. The standard second-trimester ultrasound is a transabdominal ultrasound to examine the fetus’s anatomy in detail.
What Happens During an Appointment?
The specifics of an ultrasound appointment depend on the type of scan being performed. During the procedure, you will lie down on an examination table. A clear, water-based gel is applied to your abdomen. This gel helps transmit the sound waves from the transducer into your body. The technician will then gently press the transducer against your skin and move it around to capture images from different angles.
You will be able to see the images on a monitor. The sonographer can point out different parts of the fetus, such as the head, limbs, and beating heart. The procedure is generally painless, though you might feel some mild pressure from the transducer.
Why Are They Beneficial?
Pregnancy ultrasounds serve multiple functions throughout the prenatal period. They are a primary tool for monitoring both maternal and fetal health from conception through to delivery. Early in pregnancy, ultrasounds are used to confirm the presence of a viable pregnancy and to establish an accurate due date. This helps in scheduling future tests and monitoring milestones. As the pregnancy progresses, scans allow healthcare providers to track fetal growth and check the position of the placenta.
The anatomy scan in the second trimester is a detailed examination of the fetus’s physical development. The technician methodically checks the brain, heart, and other organs for their structure and formation. This scan can identify the presence of multiple fetuses and provide information about the baby’s sex. By supplying a comprehensive view of fetal development, ultrasounds give medical teams information that contributes to a plan for prenatal care.
Visit a Fertility Clinic
Beyond their role in a confirmed pregnancy, ultrasounds are also a foundational tool in fertility medicine. For individuals or couples seeking assistance with conception, fertility clinics utilize ultrasound technology to monitor the reproductive system. Scheduling a consultation at a fertility clinic can provide access to these diagnostic capabilities and offer a pathway to understanding your reproductive health.
