Ultrasound is a nonharmful and painless procedure that shows the health, structure, and development of the baby in the uterus. This medical procedure is performed using high-frequency sound waves that form images and videos of the baby.
1. Importance of Ultrasound during pregnancy
Ultrasound is a painless procedure and is widely considered to be safe. There are many great benefits of ultrasound for the parent and the health care provider. As it determines the health of the baby and its growth or if there are any potential problems with the pregnancy.
The first ultrasound is preferably done in the first trimester to confirm the due date. The second ultrasound is done mostly during 18-22 weeks of pregnancy to confirm the normal anatomy and sex of the baby. The health care provider may go for more ultrasound scans only if they detect any potential medical concern.
2. Choose the right ultrasound clinic
Choosing the right ultrasound clinic to book your ultrasound appointment should not be taken lightly. You should always focus on various factors that include specialized expertise, location, clinic ambiance, insurance, comfort, a vast range of services, and the latest technology.
An ultrasound scan can detect abnormalities or any other health issues in the unborn baby. The right treatment done at the right time can save your baby’s future.
3. Are Ultrasound scans safe during pregnancy?
Ultrasound scans have been used in pregnancy for decades and there is no evidence that ultrasound scans can be harmful to the baby or the mother. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), ultrasound is considered a much safer way to look at your unborn baby than X-rays.
An ultrasound can usually take 20 to 30 minutes during the process depending upon the type of examination. It is a noiseless procedure but the patients are advised to wear loose-fitting or comfortable clothing and drink more fluids before the procedure. The patient mostly receives their results within 24 hours.
4. How much does an Ultrasound cost?
Ultrasound scans are commonly done during pregnancies, but they can be costly. The cost of your ultrasound scan can vary on various factors such as where you live, where you book your appointment, and your health care plan. On average, ultrasounds can cost anywhere from $200 to $800.
Most women receive one or two ultrasound scans during pregnancy. However, the number and time may vary depending on the health conditions of the baby or the concerns of your healthcare provider.
5. Ultrasound scans for certain conditions
After your ultrasound scan is performed your healthcare provider may want to perform more diagnostic tests, to see if the baby has a birth defect. This can lead to certain health conditions that require proper monitoring.
Birth defects can overall affect the unborn baby’s health which requires proper medical monitoring and medication.
Bottom Line
An ultrasound can provide you and your healthcare team with information about your pregnancy and the development of your unborn baby. The result can guide you about your unborn baby’s health, your due date, your baby’s position in the uterus, and the baby’s growth and size.