Ultrasound in Pregnancy: Types and Timing of Scans
Ultrasound scans are a crucial part of prenatal care, providing essential information about the baby’s development and well-being. Understanding the types and timing of these scans can help expectant mothers navigate their pregnancy with confidence.
Different Types of Ultrasound Scans
1. Dating Scan:
When: Usually done between 8-14 weeks.
Purpose: To determine the gestational age, confirm the due date, and check for multiple pregnancies. If you’re looking for a dating scan pregnancy, SHREE Diagnostics Howrah offers reliable services. Check the dating scan price for an accurate estimate.
2. Nuchal Translucency Scan:
When: Between 11-14 weeks.
Purpose: To measure the fluid at the back of the baby’s neck and assess the risk of Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities.
3. Anatomy Scan (Anomaly Scan):
When: Between 18-22 weeks.
Purpose: To examine the baby’s organs and structures, detecting any physical abnormalities. The 19 weeks anomaly scan is crucial for identifying structural issues. The anatomy ultrasound or anatomy sonogram at SHREE Diagnostics & Clinic ensures comprehensive fetal health checks.
4. Growth Scan:
When: Typically, in the third trimester.
Purpose: To monitor the baby’s growth and development, ensuring they are growing at a healthy rate.
5. Doppler Scan:
When: As needed, usually in the second or third trimester.
Purpose: To measure the blood flow in the umbilical cord and baby’s blood vessels, ensuring they are getting enough oxygen and nutrients.
The Importance of Each Scan
Dating Scan: Confirms pregnancy, provides an accurate due date, and checks for multiple pregnancies.
Nuchal Translucency Scan: Early detection of chromosomal abnormalities and risk assessment for Down syndrome.
Anatomy Scan: Detailed examination of baby’s organs and structures, detecting major physical abnormalities.
Growth Scan: Ensures the baby is growing appropriately and helps identify any growth restrictions or issues.
Doppler Scan: Monitors the baby’s health, particularly in high-risk pregnancies, ensuring proper blood flow and nutrient supply.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Preparation: Typically, no special preparation is needed. For early scans, you might be asked to have a full bladder.
Procedure: You will lie down, and a gel will be applied to your abdomen. The technician will use a transducer to send sound waves into your uterus, creating images of the baby on a monitor.
Duration: Each scan usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
Comfort: The procedure is painless, though you might feel some pressure from the transducer.
When searching for diagnostic centre near me, consider visiting Shree Diagnostic Centre in Howrah, West Bengal. Their quality services include various comprehensive prenatal scans during pregnancy. For more information, contact Shree Diagnostic & Clinic for the best sonography services.
