This investigation is performed using a small probe inserted into the vagina (transvaginally) with the purpose of measuring the length of the cervix. Special and additional ultrasound scans in pregnancy: This examination can add important information on how well the placenta is working and on the condition of the fetus. Blood flow produces a special sound which resembles the heartbeat. Colour Doppler may be used to identify the vessels that will show in red or blue colours, according to the direction of blood flow. The ultrasound machine can also examine the flow of blood to the placenta or within certain blood vessels. Are there problems suspected that could not be seen earlier?.Growth scans (in the third trimester/last 3 months of pregnancy): Is there a normal amount of amniotic fluid?.Where is the placenta located in the uterus?.Are there any problems suspected for the baby? (anatomy scan).When is the due date? (less reliable than done earlier).Ask for more information on the possibilities to your doctor or midwife. Is there extra fluid in the neck? (nuchal translucency screening)ĭuring this scan you may also be given the option to have a risk assessment for chromosomal anomalies (such as Down syndrome).Is the baby early development appearing normal?.Scans in early pregnancy (up to 10 weeks): The following clinical questions can be answered by these routine scans: The number of these scans will vary according to where you are having your scan and whether any problems are suspected. Scans may be performed at various times in pregnancy with different aims.
Ultrasound can provide more information on the growth of the baby and the amount of amniotic fluid. Sometimes the physical examination may suggest a problem (for example: the abdomen feels too small or too big for the week of pregnancy). Whilst this is still important, scans can provide much more information. In the past doctors and midwives relied on external or internal physical examinations only. Your scan is an important part of your pregnancy care. There are international safety regulations to which all companies making ultrasound equipment have to comply.
DOPPLER ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY PROFESSIONAL
Therefore, it is important that the professional doing your ultrasound keeps that in mind while performing the examination. This heat is minimal and disappears quickly but can build up if the scan is performed over a long period of time in the same area. Sound waves can generate heat as they cause small vibrations. Ultrasound scans have been performed in pregnancy for more than 30 years – until now there are no known risks for you or your fetus.
The image can be enlarged to view the uterus (womb), the placenta (afterbirth), the amniotic fluid (the water around the baby) and the anatomy of the baby.
This leaflet is to help you understand the use of ultrasound in pregnancy, the timing of your scans, and what additional scans you might need during your pregnancy.Īn ultrasound scan is an easy way to look at the developing fetus inside your uterus. ISUOG and FMF Present Ultrasound Essentials.This bounce is then translated into sound.
DOPPLER ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY SKIN
The ultrasound waves pass through your skin and tissue, and then bounce back. There's usually a handset, a built-in speaker, and a transducer that's placed against your bump. Hand held Dopplers are pocket-sized, battery-operated devices that send out high-frequency ultrasound waves. If you have any concerns about your baby’s movements whether they have slowed down or changed pattern, you must contact your maternity unit immediately to be monitored properly. Keeping an eye on your baby’s movements is the best way for parents to monitor their wellbeing. It is also very difficult to listen to the baby’s heartbeat before about 14-16 weeks, so if you are unable to hear it, this may cause lots of unnecessary panic and anxiety. This means that when you listen in, you may not be hearing the baby’s heartbeat at all and can be falsely reassured. When using a hand held doppler it is possible for there to be some confusion with the mother’s own heartbeat and pulsing of the placenta which can be doubled to sound like the baby’s heartbeat. Hearing your baby’s heartbeat is precious and reassuring for many parents however it is important that only midwives and trained health professionals use a doppler to listen in.
By Kate, Midwifery Manager for Tommy’s Information Service
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