If you are pregnant, you will need to get at least two ultrasounds (also known as sonograms) to check your baby’s growth and health. This procedure works by pulsing sound waves through your body and producing images of your little one. If you’ve ever had questions about pregnancy ultrasounds, our FAQ can help!

What types of ultrasounds are there?

There are two main types of pregnancy ultrasounds: transvaginal and abdominal.

• Transvaginal ultrasound: This type of sonogram is typically used in early pregnancy. A device shaped like a wand is inserted into the vaginal canal, providing clear images of the uterus and developing baby.
• Abdominal ultrasound: This sonogram is performed by moving a transducer over the abdomen. It is commonly used after the first trimester to monitor the baby’s growth and development, as well as any health conditions.

Advanced options, like 3D/4D and Doppler ultrasounds, may also be used for detailed imaging.

How do pregnancy ultrasounds work?

Ultrasounds use sound waves to create images of your baby and your reproductive organs. A device called a transducer sends sound waves into your body, which then bounce off internal structures. These echoes are converted into images displayed on the screen. Unlike X-rays, they do not use radiation, making them safe for both you and your baby.

Why is it important to get ultrasounds?

Ultrasounds are essential for monitoring your baby’s health and development. They provide critical information to ensure a healthy pregnancy, including the following.

• Confirming pregnancy
• Determining gestational age
• Checking for multiples (e.g., twins)
• Monitoring your baby’s growth, movement, and heart rate
• Checking the baby’s positioning in your uterus
• Detecting potential complications for you or the baby, such as ectopic pregnancy or birth defects
• Assessing the health of your uterus, placenta, and amniotic fluid levels

How many sonograms will I need?

Most pregnancies involve at least two ultrasounds, though your doctor may advise you to have more.

• First-trimester ultrasound: Typically done between 7-12 weeks to confirm pregnancy, determine gestational age, and check for multiple babies
• 20-week anatomy ultrasound: Conducted around 18-20 weeks to examine your baby’s organs, detect abnormalities, and determine the baby’s sex (if desired)

Additional sonograms may be recommended if you have a high-risk pregnancy or if complications arise. If you have had tubal pregnancies in the past, you may also receive them sooner than usual.

Why might I need more than two sonograms?

You might need additional ultrasounds if your healthcare provider suspects or identifies health concerns. Reasons for more frequent checks include:

• Monitoring a high-risk pregnancy: Conditions like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or a history of pregnancy complications may mean you’ll require more ultrasounds.
• Checking for growth issues: If your baby is measuring smaller or larger than expected, ultrasounds can help assess growth and development.
• Placental concerns: Issues like placenta previa or placental abruption may require ongoing monitoring.
• Amniotic fluid levels: Too much (polyhydramnios) or too little (oligohydramnios) amniotic fluid can impact your baby’s health.
• Multiple pregnancies: Carrying twins, triplets, or more often requires additional sonograms to monitor each baby’s growth.
• Follow-up on abnormalities: If an earlier ultrasound detects a possible health concern, follow-up scans can provide more information.

Your provider will recommend additional sonograms only when necessary to ensure the health and safety of you and your baby.

How soon can you see a baby on an ultrasound?

A baby can typically be seen on a sonogram as early as 6 weeks of pregnancy. At this stage, a small fetal pole and a heartbeat may be visible. However, the exact timing of your first sonogram can vary depending on factors like the accuracy of your last menstrual period and the type of ultrasound used.

Are there any risks with getting a pregnancy ultrasound?

Ultrasounds are considered very safe for both you and your baby. They do not use radiation and have no known harmful side effects. However, it’s recommended to only have ultrasounds when medically necessary, as excessive or non-medical use is discouraged by healthcare professionals.

Get the Best Pregnancy Care in Amarillo, Texas!

Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it can also come with concerns. Pregnancy ultrasounds can help alleviate some of those concerns and give you insight into your health and that of your baby.

Whether you are pregnant for the first time or welcoming an addition to your growing family, the caring team at WHA is here for you! We provide comprehensive Services to ensure every patient is healthy and happy! You can reach us by calling (806) 355-6330.