When and Why Will Your Obstetrician Do an Ultrasound?

There are various reasons why your OB/GYN may have ordered an ultrasound, including:

• Monitoring pregnancy – Ultrasounds are routinely used during pregnancy to monitor the growth and development of the fetus. Doctors use this tool to determine the baby’s position and check the condition of the placenta and amniotic fluid.
• Investigating symptoms – If you have unexplained pelvic pain, unexplained bleeding, or other symptoms, an ultrasound may be ordered to identify the underlying cause of your discomfort, whether it be ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, or other concerns.
• Assessing fertility issues – For women undergoing fertility treatments or having difficulty conceiving, ultrasounds are used to monitor ovulation, evaluate the condition of the ovaries and uterus, and guide procedures like egg retrieval for IVF.

As ultrasounds provide valuable insights about internal structures, they are essential tools in both gynecological and obstetric care. If you have any concerns or questions about why an ultrasound has been ordered, our dedicated team is here to provide guidance and clarity.

Your obstetrician will order ultrasound scans at various stages throughout your pregnancy to monitor the health and development of the fetus and evaluate the condition of your reproductive organs. In the first trimester, ultrasounds are used to confirm the pregnancy, estimate the gestational age of the fetus, and check for multiples. In addition, this tool can detect the baby’s heartbeat after 6 to 7 weeks.

Around 20 weeks, you will have an anatomy scan, which is used to check the baby’s growth, determine the sex if desired, monitor the placenta and amniotic fluid, and assess the risk of preterm birth. For some, this is the last ultrasound of their pregnancy; however, your doctor may order more ultrasounds after the anatomy scan to check the baby’s position, monitor concerns, and ensure maternal and fetal wellness.

An obstetrical ultrasound is performed to monitor the health and development of the fetus during pregnancy. Regular ultrasounds throughout pregnancy allow doctors to ensure that the baby is growing at the expected rate and that organs are developing well. In addition, ultrasounds are used to detect potential complications, such as ectopic pregnancies, miscarriages, or issues with the umbilical cord.

Ultrasounds can identify if a woman is carrying more than one fetus, which is crucial for managing twin or multiple pregnancies. This tool is also used to determine the location and condition of the placenta, as well as amniotic fluid levels.

As the due date approaches, ultrasounds can confirm the baby’s position in the uterus, which is important for planning delivery. For example, if the baby is in a breech position, alternative delivery plans may be considered.

During pregnancy, ultrasounds are typically performed several times:

• Dating ultrasound (6 to 9 weeks) – This early scan confirms the pregnancy, detects a fetal heartbeat, and helps determine the due date.
• Nuchal translucency scan (11 to 14 weeks) – This ultrasound is used to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, by measuring the fluid at the back of the fetus’s neck.
• Anatomy ultrasound (18 to 22 weeks) – Also known as the mid-pregnancy or anomaly scan, obstetricians use this ultrasound to evaluate the baby’s development, including organs, limbs, and overall growth. This scan can be used to reveal the baby’s sex, if desired, and assess the placenta and amniotic fluid levels.
• Growth scan (after 28 weeks) – The growth scan provides important information about the baby’s size, position, and development. These scans are usually recommended if you had previous pregnancy complications or if there are concerns about the baby’s size or position.

Additional ultrasounds may be scheduled if there are any complications or specific concerns. It’s important to follow your obstetrician’s guidance regarding when to schedule your ultrasound appointments. If you need a pregnancy ultrasound near Norcross or Lawrenceville, GA, schedule a visit to Abundant Life Healthcare.

Ultrasounds are a fundamental component of prenatal care, providing vital insights that guide obstetricians in ensuring the optimal health of both mother and baby. Abundant Life Healthcare is equipped with advanced ultrasound technology and is staffed by caring professionals who prioritize your comfort and understanding during each scan. To learn more about how these important assessments can benefit your pregnancy journey, or to schedule an ultrasound, please contact us today or book an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Georgia. We serve patients from Lawrenceville GA, Norcross GA, Suwanee GA, Snellville GA, Duluth GA, Auburn GA, Loganville GA, Clarkston GA, and the surrounding areas.