why do it and what is it for?
ultrasound examination during pregnancy
THE'obstetric ultrasound It is a safe, painless, and non-invasive test that allows for visualization of the fetus throughout pregnancy through the use of ultrasound. A probe placed on the mother's abdomen emits high-frequency sound waves that, bouncing off the internal tissues, are transformed into images on the ultrasound monitor. This makes it possible observe the pregnancy in real time, evaluate the location of the gestational sac, embryonic viability, fetal growth and numerous other parameters useful for accurately monitoring the progress of pregnancy. Ultrasound examinations complement the obstetric examination and are a key tool in monitoring maternal and fetal health.
During a physiological pregnancy, tests are generally performed at least three obstetric ultrasounds Scheduled: one in the first trimester, one in the second, and one in the third. Each has specific objectives and provides different information about the pregnancy's progress. The exam can, however, be repeated outside of these timeframes when the gynecologist deems it appropriate to clarify a clinical picture, monitor fetal growth more closely, or verify specific aspects identified during the visit.
preparation rules
How is an obstetric ultrasound performed?
During theobstetric ultrasound The patient lies on the ultrasound bed and can observe the images on the ultrasound monitor. The doctor applies a special gel to the abdomen, which facilitates the passage of the ultrasound waves, and slides the probe over the skin's surface to visualize the internal structures. The room's lighting is dimmed to improve image quality. The duration of the exam is not standard: it varies based on the gestational age, the type of evaluation requested, and the position of the fetus within the uterus.
Fasting is not required for the ultrasound. However, it is recommended to avoid applying creams or ointments to the abdomen in the two days prior to the scan, as they may interfere with ultrasound transmission and reduce the clarity of the images. The success of the scan may be affected by the thickness of the abdominal fat or specific fetal positions, but in most cases, ultrasound provides an adequate overview of the obstetric situation and integrates effectively with other assessments planned during the pregnancy.
quarterly ultrasounds
First quarter: dating ultrasound
The first ultrasound during pregnancy is
usually performed between the 6th and 13th week, often between the 11th and 13thAt this stage, the exam allows visualization of the gestational sac in the uterus, confirming the correct location of the pregnancy and ruling out the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy. The gynecologist determines the number of embryos, distinguishing between singleton and twin pregnancies, and measures the crown-rump length (CRL), which allows for the precise dating of the pregnancy and the estimated due date. First-trimester ultrasound also allows for the detection of embryonic cardiac activity and the assessment of the viability of the pregnancy. At this stage, it is also possible to observe the initial morphology of the uterus and detect the presence of fibroids or other pathologies that may require specific checks later in the pregnancy.
Second quarter: morphological ultrasound
The second trimester ultrasound, called
morphological ultrasound, he comes
usually performed between the 19th and 22nd week
of pregnancy. This is one of the most important parts of the ultrasound process, as it allows for a systematic and detailed assessment of fetal morphology. During the exam, the head, chest, abdomen, spine, heart, great vessels, limbs, kidneys, bladder, and other major fetal structures are assessed, as well as the position of the placenta and the amount of amniotic fluid. The goal is to identify possible malformations or developmental anomalies, within the limits of the imaging technique's capabilities. The ability to detect an anomaly depends on several factors, including its extent, the amount of amniotic fluid, the thickness of the maternal abdominal wall, and the position of the fetus during the exam. In some cases, if certain structures are not fully visualized, a re-evaluation may be recommended at a later date. Sometimes, when the fetal position allows it, it is also possible to identify the baby's sex.
Third quarter: growth ultrasound
In the third trimester, a growth ultrasound is performed, generally
between the 30th and 34th weekAt this stage, the examination aims to verify the fetus's harmonious growth, comparing the obtained measurements with reference curves. The main auxological parameters are measured, such as biparietal diameter and head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femoral length. These data allow us to estimate fetal weight and assess the appropriateness of size for the gestational age. Third-trimester ultrasound also allows us to define the fetal position (cephalic or breech presentation), check placental attachment, assess the amount of amniotic fluid, and identify any previously undetected anomalies. It can be integrated with color Doppler ultrasound of the umbilical cord and maternal-fetal vessels, useful for analyzing blood flow in conditions such as growth restriction, pregnancy-induced hypertension, or gestational diabetes, contributing to the assessment of possible fetal distress.
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