Fetal ultrasound is one of the methods of intrauterine monitoring of the condition and development of the child. This procedure is based on the action of sound waves, the frequency of which is not audible to the human ear. Like an echo, they bounce off different tissues with different strengths, turning into an image that is displayed on the monitor.
What a fetal ultrasound does:
- Sets the exact gestational age.
- Determines the number of embryos.
- Determines the place where the placenta was attached.
- Detects the presence of fibroids or other formations in the pelvis, which, one way or another, prevent the favorable development of pregnancy.
- Detects pathology of fetal development in time.
During pregnancy, the expectant mother will need to attend three scheduled fetal ultrasounds.
The first is carried out for a period of 10 to 14 weeks. The main purpose of this procedure is to identify the presence of malformations in the fetus (for example, hydrocephalus or Down's Syndrome) and determine the date of birth. If a pathology is detected, the doctor decides either to keep the pregnancy or to get rid of it (naturally, with the consent of the mother).
Second expertA fetal ultrasound should be done between the 20th and 24th weeks. At this time, all organs are already clearly formed in the fetus, and this study is carried out to study their development. If any pathology is detected, then intrauterine treatment is applied. Also, in the second study, a thorough analysis of the state of the placenta, as well as the amount of amniotic fluid.
3rd ultrasound performed between 30 and 34 weeks. It also examines all the internal organs of the fetus, assesses the condition of the placenta, uterus and amniotic fluid.
In addition to the planned ultrasound, the doctor may prescribe an unscheduled study. The reason for it may be:
- This study is performed to clarify the timing of pregnancy before: induction of labor, caesarean section, abortion.
- The presence of certain maternal diseases (diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, preeclampsia, etc.) that can cause intrauterine growth retardation of the fetus.
- Bleeding during pregnancy.
- If multiple pregnancy is suspected.
- When a mass is found in the pelvic cavity, which was detected during a manual examination.
- To exclude ectopic pregnancy.
- If you suspect a miscarriage (fetal death).
- If you suspect low or polyhydramnios.
- For evaluation of fetal defects identified earlier.
The entire ultrasound procedure takes no more than 25 minutes. It is completely painless and safe for bothwomen, and for the fetus. At less than 12 weeks of gestation, ultrasound is performed with a vaginal probe, more than 12 weeks - with a probe that is driven over the abdomen.
In recent years, future mothers have begun to use a new type of diagnostics - 3D ultrasound of the fetus. This is a 3D ultrasound study that provides even more information about some fetal malformations. In addition, 3D ultrasound allows a pregnant woman to see some parts of the baby's body and his face. Also, the entire procedure can be recorded on digital media.
