Pregnancy ultrasounds are not medical procedures, but they do provide information to parents. Sonographers use sound waves to create pictures and video that are transmitted to the patient's monitor. The International ultrasound services can be detailed enough to help a provider diagnose the baby's health or make informed decisions about the pregnancy. The doctor will explain the process and any possible risks or complications. This test is best performed before the third trimester, but may be necessary earlier or later depending on the woman's overall health.
An ultrasound is a type of anatomical scan that shows the fetus's basic structures. The physician looks for the baby's face, nose, and other features. In multipara women, the likelihood of a foetal anomaly is much higher than for primipara women. Both women can have the ultrasound performed at the UnityPoint Health - Meriter Hospital Center for Perinatal Care. An ultrasound is a simple, noninvasive way to learn more about your growing child.
While an ultrasound does not cause pain, there are a number of risks. The procedure is uncomfortable, and many women find it unwelcoming. But the ultrasound is a noninvasive and safe option. While a pregnancy ultrasound is rarely uncomfortable, it may be accompanied by further tests, including amniocentesis. If the results of an ultrasound reveal a risky situation, the doctor may recommend further tests, such as chorionic villus sampling.
A normal pregnancy ultrasound shows the placenta in a mound-shaped structure in the center of the screen. A fetal MRI of this type shows the placenta during a 'Braxton Hicks contraction'. A woman's vertebra is also visible on the bottom right side of the image. An ultrasound scan performed at 17 weeks gestation is considered normal and will show the placenta. It's important to note that this procedure is not a diagnosis, but a good way to learn if your baby is growing correctly.
The ultrasound process takes about 30 minutes. During a standard scan, a probe is applied to the abdomen. It can cause minimal discomfort. The transducer will send high-frequency sound waves deep into the uterus and will produce pictures on a screen. Some women may experience some discomfort during this process, particularly if they are obese. A full bladder will require holding their breath for a few minutes, but there are no complications. A full bladder is not the best time for an ultrasound.
The benefits of a pregnancy ultrasound are clear: it gives parents a first-hand look at their baby before she's even conceived. It's a great way to bond with your partner and to prepare for the birth. However, an ultrasound is not completely accurate, but it's still useful for a pregnant woman's health. The results of the test may not be 100% accurate. In some cases, the doctor may not be able to detect problems through the test. Find out more about pregnancy here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pregnancy.
