You’ll want to see your baby as soon as that extra line emerges on the pregnancy test to make it all accurate. This can be done quite early on with a pregnancy ultrasound.
This first pregnancy ultrasound might bring up a flood of feelings, making you both happy and worried. However, knowing what to expect can help you relax and enjoy the process.
When your midwife says the word “ultrasound” for the first time, you might be confused about what it implies. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about your pregnancy’s first pregnancy ultrasound.
What is a pregnancy Ultrasound, and how does it work?
Ultrasound imaging is a process that creates an image by using high-frequency sound waves that bounce off structures inside the body. Ultrasound is commonly used during pregnancy because it does not involve radiation like other imaging methods.
The sound does not endanger the mother or the baby. As a result, you can feel secure going into your first pregnancy ultrasound.
How to Get Ready for a pregnancy Ultrasound Exam
You want your doctor to be able to see your uterus. Fortunately, an ultrasound does not necessitate extensive preparation.
- Satisfy your hunger. A typical prenatal ultrasound does not need you to fast.
- Hydrate! Looking from the outside is a little simpler with a full bladder.
- If the doctor requires a closer look, you may be asked to empty your bladder before the test. It will take you far less time to pee than it will fill your bladder, so drink as much as you can.
In your first pregnancy ultrasound, what does the doctor look for?
Your doctor will perform this initial ultrasound to ensure that your pregnancy is viable and healthy. This will also help them predict your due date more precisely, as guessing the first day of the last period isn’t always accurate.
This test also informs your doctor about the number of babies on the way. Pregnancies involving twins or multiples necessitate a little extra attention, and early detection can assist decide this.
Doctors can also spot specific anomalies that may arise early on during this technique. For example, if your child has a significant chromosomal abnormality, this can help you make an early decision on what to do next.
Don’t be alarmed by all of this information. Know that each pregnancy has a 96 to 97 per-cent chance of producing a healthy child.
Let’s take a look at some of the specific signs of a healthy pregnancy that your doctor will look for in your womb.
You should be able to hear and see your child’s heartbeat. However, nothing will prepare you for the enormous excitement you’ll experience when you see this magnificent moment for yourself.
Your doctor will also measure the foetus. They’ll also look for a structure known as the yolk sac, which will feed your baby until the placenta is fully formed.
The doctor will measure the placenta and check for placement if you obtain this imaging closer to 12 weeks. They’ll also limit the amount of amniotic fluid in your uterus to ensure that your baby is well protected from the elements.
What Is the Earliest You Can Get a Pregnancy Ultrasound?
Many ladies look forward to seeing their kids for the first time. Some people want to see their baby, while others need to believe it because they may not be pregnant yet.
So, when is your first ultrasound scheduled?
Imaging tests are unlikely to identify your baby before six weeks because it is only the size of a pea and growing at a rapid rate. To ensure a clear sight of the infant, most doctors prefer to wait until seven or eight weeks.
At this point, external ultrasonography usually can’t pick up the image. As a result, the doctor will almost always choose an internal ultrasound.
External vs Internal Ultrasound on the inside
The technician will apply a special gel across your lower tummy during an external ultrasound. Then, to produce an image on the screen, they will gently push a transducer against your abdomen. This type of scan picks up more significant structures.
Internal ultrasound, also known as transvaginal ultrasound, is slightly more invasive. The technician must introduce a probe into the vaginal canal for this operation.
Internal imaging provides for a more detailed examination of the uterus. If a structure is blocked or the pregnancy is too early to observe with an external ultrasound, your doctor may use this sort of imaging.
While the transvaginal ultrasound may be uncomfortable, neither imaging procedure is painful. However, you may feel some pressure from both, as they press to shift other constructions to obtain a better perspective.
Is the Technician Going to Tell Everything?
Ultrasound technicians can point out structures on the screen. They cannot, however, read the image to you. A doctor can only give a diagnosis.
So don’t be concerned if your device remains silent. Some people go to great lengths to avoid any complications.
If your technician suspects a problem, they may invite another person into the room. Do not immediately become alarmed; this could be a slight misunderstanding or a mistake on their part. Once your doctor receives the scan, they will give you a comprehensive breakdown.
Congratulations!
Creating a life is the beginning of an incredible journey. Best wishes to you and your partner!
Arrive at your first pregnancy ultrasound prepared, so you know what to expect and are filled with enthusiasm rather than nervous worries. This first glimpse of your little love is a special moment that you will remember for the rest of your life.
Once you start with your parenting journey, you have a responsibility to make sure that your children have a brighter future with good health. All of this is taken care of by Nurturey’s ‘Milestone Tracker.’ It explains all of the age-appropriate milestones in your child’s growth and development, reminds you of the current or approaching milestones, and assists you in recording and keeping track of all of them. Visit www.nurturey.com to successfully manage your child’s health and have an intelligent assistant helping you manage your pregnancy at your fingertips.