Congratulations, you’re going to be a mom! This joyful moment comes with many changes and important milestones. Among these, obstetrical ultrasounds play a key role in monitoring your baby’s development and ensuring your well-being throughout pregnancy. These ultrasounds are part of prenatal care and can provide valuable information at every stage of pregnancy. In this article, we explain the essential details about these exams, from the first trimester to the end of your pregnancy.
What is a pregnancy ultrasound?
An obstetrical ultrasound is a non-invasive exam that uses sound waves to create images of your baby inside the uterus. This exam allows for tracking the fetus’s growth, checking the mother’s health, and detecting any potential abnormalities, if necessary. Prenatal ultrasounds are an integral part of prenatal care and can offer crucial insights at every stage of pregnancy.
What is the purpose of each type of pregnancy ultrasound?
- Dating ultrasound (7–11 weeks): This ultrasound, performed as early as the 7th week of amenorrhea, allows visualization of the embryo and detection of its heartbeat. It also verifies the presence and location of one or more gestational sacs. The main goal is to accurately date the beginning of pregnancy and estimate the due date. If this ultrasound is not performed, the first-trimester ultrasound will take over this function.
- First trimester (11–14 weeks): This ultrasound confirms the pregnancy, precisely dates the gestational age, and determines if it is a single or multiple pregnancy.
- Second trimester (18–22 weeks): The morphology ultrasound examines your baby’s organs in detail, detects potential abnormalities, and checks the placenta’s position.
- Third trimester (after 30 weeks): The growth ultrasound evaluates your baby’s size, weight, and position. It also checks the level of amniotic fluid.
Nuchal Translucency
Nuchal translucency is a specific measurement taken during the first-trimester ultrasound. It helps identify certain genetic risks, such as trisomy 21. This test, combined with a blood test, provides an early risk assessment for your baby.
Morphology Ultrasounds
This detailed exam, performed in the second trimester, is perhaps one of the most eagerly awaited by expectant mothers. It not only verifies your baby’s organ development but also reveals the gender if you wish to know!
Growth Ultrasounds
Typically performed late in pregnancy, this ultrasound ensures your baby is continuing to grow normally. It is essential for planning the final stages of pregnancy and delivery.
How to prepare for your ultrasound appointment?
- Wear comfortable, easy-to-remove clothing.
- Arrive with a full bladder if requested, as this can improve image quality.
- Bring your health insurance card and any documents required by your doctor.
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions during the exam, your healthcare professional is there to reassure you.
Book your pregnancy ultrasounds
At Radimed, we understand the importance of quality prenatal care for you and your baby. That’s why our clinics in Pierrefonds, West Island, Trois-Lacs, and Valleyfield offer obstetrical ultrasound services tailored to every stage of your pregnancy. Our teams support you through your prenatal exams, ensuring your well-being and that of your baby.
Book your appointment today to experience this essential step with confidence and peace of mind.
Note: The dating ultrasound (first trimester) is covered by the RAMQ. However, fees will apply for other obstetrical exams.
