First Trimester Ultrasound: A Comprehensive Guide

A first trimester ultrasound, also known as an early pregnancy ultrasound, is a scan conducted during the first three months of pregnancy. It is a crucial part of prenatal care because it provides the first detailed glimpse of the developing fetus and helps in monitoring its health and growth.

Why is it Important?

First trimester ultrasound is significant as it is used to confirm the pregnancy, determine the gestational age, detect potential complications, and confirm the number of fetuses. It also helps in verifying the heartbeats and location of the pregnancy.

Real-Life Example

Consider a woman named Lisa who has just discovered she’s pregnant. She would need to go for her first-trimester ultrasound around 7 to 12 weeks of her pregnancy. This ultrasound will help her doctor determine her due date more accurately, check if there’s more than one baby, and confirm whether the pregnancy is developing healthily in the uterus.

What to Expect?

During the first-trimester ultrasound, you will lie on your back on an examination table. A small amount of ultrasound gel will be put on your lower abdomen, and a probe will be gently moved across your belly. The gel helps the sound waves travel properly. The procedure is generally painless, but you may feel a slight pressure on your abdomen.

Similar Procedures

Similar procedures to a first-trimester ultrasound include a second-trimester ultrasound, also known as an anatomy scan, and a third-trimester ultrasound, which is usually done only if there are specific concerns about the pregnancy. Both these ultrasounds serve to monitor the growth and development of the baby and detect any potential issues.

Free Consultation with Dr Vijaya

Dr Vijaya, an experienced gynecologist, offers free consultation to all pregnant women. If you have queries or concerns regarding your pregnancy or first-trimester ultrasound, feel free to reach out to her. You can contact her on 07941057551 to book an appointment.