Ultrasounds during pregnancy
09/01/2009 15:58

We have quite a few e-mails of late about ultrasounds and when is the best time to have them. I have spoken to our experts and they agree that ultrasound scans are normally conducted as follows. We have also place a link to the Victorian Heath site Information about ultrasounds where they have information that has been approved by the Royal Australian College of Obstetricians. This is really helpful site full of detail that has been discussed and confirmed by doctors, rather than just opinion... which we love!

So - here is the low down on the 'norm'. Remember every pregnancy is different and your doctor will advise should you need additional or less medical check ups including ultrasounds.

First trimester - ultrasound performed within the first three months of pregnancy is used to check that the embryo is developing inside the womb (rather than inside a fallopian tube, for example), confirm the number of embryos, and calculate the gestational age and the baby's due date.

Second trimester - ultrasound performed between weeks 18 and 20 is used to check the development of foetal structures such as the spine, limbs, brain and internal organs. The size and location of the placenta is also checked. The baby's sex can be established, if the parents wish to know.

Third trimester - ultrasound performed after 30 weeks is used to check that the baby is continuing to grow at a normal rate. The location of the placenta is checked to make sure it isn't blocking the cervix.

So to all those mums and dads to be that have been trying to find information on what each ultrasound is for and when they normally happen this should help. Julie Lukic (our expert Obstetrician) is going to write some detail in the next couple of days about ultrasounds and what doctors normally look out for. What some of the jargon you may hear means and what are some of the common problems that are found and what to do about them... so stay tuned.

See you back soon!

Sal x