What to Expect From an Ultrasound Appointment
According to OB-GYN practitioners, 77.1% of live births in the United States in 2016 were to women who received early prenatal care services. Of the women surveyed, 6.2% reported receiving late or no prenatal care services, while 16.7% began care in their second trimester. Early care is an important part of ensuring that you have a healthy delivery and a healthy baby. If you’re scheduled for an ultrasound as part of your care, keep reading to learn more about what to expect at your appointment.
Early Stages of Pregnancy
During the earliest stages of your pregnancy, you’ll receive an ultrasound to check on the viability of your fetus. During this examination, the technician will check the baby’s heartbeat and ensure that the fetus is located in the uterus. Ectopic and tubular pregnancies can occur in some cases. Knowing that your pregnancy is non-uterine as soon as possible will give your doctor time to review your options with you and allow you time to make the decision that’s best for you and your family. The ultrasound procedure entails rubbing a cool gel on your belly over the area where your uterus is located. This is a non-invasive procedure, and it’s pain-free.
Closer to Your Due Date
As you move closer to your due date, you’ll undergo another ultrasound examination. This appointment will check on the growth of the fetus and the development of the vital organs. Ultrasounds in the third trimester are typically used to rule out any complications or presence of conditions such as diabetes and hypertension that could affect the growth and overall health and development of the baby.
Other Prenatal Care Services
Ultrasounds are just one part of comprehensive prenatal care. Sonograms and other health monitoring procedures allow your medical team to have insight into the development of the baby and determine if any extra steps or specialized care are necessary. You will undergo many exams, some of which will be transvaginal, which may feel a little invasive at first. It’s important to feel free to discuss any concerns or feelings of discomfort that you feel during your prenatal care. Communication is key during this period.
If you’re in need of prenatal care services, we are here to help. Our entire team is dedicated to making your pregnancy as smooth and stress-free an experience as possible. Contact us today and schedule a consultation to learn more about our services.
Posted March 1, 2023