Pregnancy ultrasounds are a type of fetal sonogram that can be used to determine the fetus’s gestational age. This test provides information on the size and position of the baby within the womb, as well as the fluid level in the amniotic sac around it. It also allows a doctor to detect abnormalities affecting the fetus or its development. Here is how a pregnancy ultrasound Newport Beach is performed.
How does a pregnancy ultrasound work?
A sonogram involves sending sound waves through your abdomen, also known as your uterus, to create an image of your reproductive organs and fetal development. The procedure can be done at any time during pregnancy but is most often performed between 10 and 13 weeks after conception. A modified procedure called transabdominal ultrasound (TAS) is also available for pregnant women who have had previous abdominal surgery. However, it does not give as detailed an image as standard ultrasound.
Why is a pregnancy ultrasound performed?
Determines the baby’s gender
A pregnancy ultrasound is performed to determine whether the baby is a boy or a girl and to check for any medical issues. The ultrasound is performed early in your pregnancy when a gestational sac can be seen. It takes about five minutes and uses transvaginal ultrasound to give an image of the baby.
Detect various health conditions
In addition to determining the baby’s sex, an ultrasound can detect various conditions such as spina bifida and Down syndrome. If you have questions or concerns about your pregnancy, it is important that you ask your doctor about having an ultrasound.
Evaluate the health of the pregnant woman
Pregnancy ultrasounds can also help doctors diagnose other conditions in pregnant women. For instance, they may look at certain features in your womb that are different from those found in healthy women. This might indicate that something is wrong, such as an infection or tumor, and needs further examination by a specialist.
Help to confirm or rule out a miscarriage
A pregnancy ultrasound should be performed in every pregnancy, regardless of how advanced it is. It will help to determine whether there is a miscarriage or not. This can also help in assessing bleeding patterns and deciding on treatment options. The procedure may also be performed if you are a parent with concerns about your child’s health or well-being.
Examine the placenta and the cervix
During a pregnancy ultrasound, your doctor will examine the placenta and the uterus. The placenta is a structure that provides nourishment and oxygen for the baby. The uterus is the organ responsible for supporting, protecting, and nourishing the baby during pregnancy. Through the ultrasound, the doctor will determine if these organs are strong enough to carry the pregnancy to term.
Pregnancy ultrasounds are special images and video recordings of your baby in the womb, also known as anatomical ultrasounds. There may also be other types of ultrasounds specifically designed to visualize your baby’s heart, placenta, fluid levels, and position. They also provide a view into the development of your baby before birth. If you are pregnant and would love to know your baby’s state of health, schedule an appointment with OC Fertility® specialists.
