Ultrasound of the fetus 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 whose oscillation frequency is not audible to the human ear. Like echoes, they are reflected from various tissues with different strengths, turning into a picture that is displayed on the monitor.
What does an ultrasound of the fetus:
- Sets the exact gestational age.
- Determines the number of embryos.
- Identifies the place where the placenta was attached.
- Detects the presence of fibroids or other formations in the pelvis, which, one way or another, impede the favorable development of pregnancy.
- In time, reveals the pathology of the development of the fetus.
During pregnancy, the expectant mother will need to visit three planned ultrasounds of the fetus.
The first is carried out for a period of 10 to 14 weeks. The main goal of this procedure is to identify the presence of defects in the fetus (for example, hydrocephalus or Down Syndrome) and determine the date of birth. If a pathology is detected, the doctor makes a decision either to maintain the pregnancy, or to get rid of it (naturally, with the consent of the mother).
The second expert ultrasound of the fetus must be done in the interval between the 20th and 24th weeks. At this time, all the organs are clearly formed in the fetus, and this study is conducted to study their development. If any pathology is detected, then intrauterine treatment is used. Also, in the second study, a thorough analysis of the condition of the placenta, as well as the amount of amniotic fluid, is carried out carefully.
3rd ultrasound is performed for a period of 30 to 34 weeks. It also examines all the internal organs of the fetus, evaluates the condition of the placenta, uterus and amniotic fluid.
In addition to the planned ultrasound, the doctor can prescribe an unscheduled examination. The reason for its implementation may be:
- This study is carried out in order to clarify the duration of pregnancy before: stimulation of labor, cesarean section, abortion.
- The presence of certain diseases of the mother (diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, preeclampsia, etc.), which can cause intrauterine growth retardation.
- Bleeding during pregnancy.
- If you suspect a multiple pregnancy.
- If a formation in the pelvic cavity is detected, which was detected by manual examination.
- To exclude an ectopic pregnancy.
- If you suspect a missed pregnancy (fetal death).
- If you suspect low or high water.
- To assess fetal malformations identified previously.
The entire ultrasound procedure takes no more than 25 minutes. It is absolutely painless and safe for both the woman and the fetus. With a gestational age of less than 12 weeks, an ultrasound scan is performed with a vaginal probe, more than 12 with a probe that is carried through the abdomen.
In recent years, future mothers have begun to use a new type of diagnosis - 3D ultrasound of the fetus. This is a three-dimensional ultrasound study that provides even more information about some fetal malformations. In addition, 3D ultrasound allows the pregnant woman to see some parts of the baby’s body and his face. Also, the entire procedure can be recorded on digital media.