High-Resolution Ultrasound
An ultrasound scan is a diagnostic technique which uses high-frequency sound
waves to create an image of the internal organs. A screening ultrasound is sometimes done during the course of a pregnancy to monitor normal fetal growth and verify the due date. Ultrasounds may be performed at various times throughout pregnancy for different reasons:
In the first trimester:
- to establish the dates of a pregnancy
- to determine the number of fetuses and identify placental structures
- to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage
- to examine the uterus and other pelvic anatomy
- in some cases to detect fetal abnormalities
Mid-trimester: (sometimes called the 18 to 20 week targeted scan) to confirm pregnancy dates
- to determine the number of fetuses and examine the placental structures
- to assist in prenatal tests such as an amniocentesis
- to examine the fetal anatomy for presence of abnormalities
- to check the amount of amniotic fluid
- to examine blood flow patterns
- to observe fetal behavior and activity
- to examine the placenta
- to measure the length of the cervix
- to monitor fetal growth
Third trimester:
- to monitor fetal growth
- to check the amount of amniotic fluid
- as part of other testing such as the biophysical profile
- to determine the position of a fetus
- to assess the placenta
Visit our Ultrasound Image Gallery
