Pregnancy is a magical stage for future parents that is generally lived with great enthusiasm, although it is not without fears, especially for new parents who must face several challenges for the first time. The best way to combat this discomfort and gain security is to inform yourself and systematically visit the doctor, so it is important that you are clear about how many ultrasounds you need during pregnancy.
What types of ultrasound are there?
Ultrasound scans are performed with the objective of assessing the evolution of the embryonic and fetal structures, although they also reveal the moment of gestation and are used to analyze the state of the placenta and the fetus.
Different types of ultrasound are used today. Classic ultrasound is two-dimensional and can be performed abdominally or transvaginally, depending on the gestational age or what the doctor needs to observe.
Color Doppler echotomography is used to assess blood circulation, both in the mother and the fetus, so it is indicated to check that the placenta is fulfilling its function. Thanks to it, the doctor can calculate the supply of oxygen and nutrients that reach the baby through the maternal circulation.
We also find three- and four-dimensional ecotomographs, a state-of-the-art technology that is used as a complement to conventional ultrasound since it allows the baby to be seen much more clearly, generating very clear body images. In fact, with four-dimensional ultrasound, parents will be able to see their baby moving in real time.
The number of ultrasounds during pregnancy
The usual thing is that three ultrasound scans are performed during pregnancy, although in some cases the doctor may indicate more. Of course, ultrasound scans are not performed at any time during pregnancy but at precise stages, to gather as much information as possible.
- First ultrasound. The first ultrasound is performed between 11 and 13 weeks of gestation in order to see the placenta, check how many babies are forming and analyze the nuchal fold. With this ultrasound, the gestational age can be determined with greater precision, so that the doctor can better estimate the time of delivery. It also makes it possible to diagnose if it is a high-risk pregnancy that will have to be followed closely and helps detect problems in the maternal internal genital tract such as a uterine fibroid or an ovarian cyst.
- Second ultrasound. This test is carried out between 18 and 20 weeks to check the rate of development of the baby. It is used to analyze organ formation and detect possible abnormalities. In fact, the doctor will measure the fetus and carefully review all of its anatomy. In some cases, if the baby “lets herself be seen”, thanks to this ultrasound the parents will be able to know the sex of their little one.
- Third ultrasound. Between 33 and 34 weeks, the doctor will order a third ultrasound to monitor the baby’s growth and analyze what is known as fetal statics, which is nothing more than the position of the fetus. In some cases, this test is used to detect late malformations that could not be seen on previous ultrasound scans. In addition, with this ultrasound the doctor analyzes the amount of amniotic fluid, which is usually an indicator of fetal well-being and reveals if the baby may be at risk.
If all goes well, these ultrasounds should be enough. However, in some cases the doctor may request additional diagnostic tests, either because they suspect a fetal malformation or because it is a risk pregnancy or multiple gestation. There is no doubt that these additional tests become a source of concern for parents, but they should bear in mind that ultrasound scans are a positive tool to ensure the health of the mother and the baby.
