An early pregnancy scan is an ultrasound examination that is performed to confirm a pregnancy and check for any potential problems during the early stages of pregnancy. It is typically done between 6 and 10 weeks of pregnancy and is also known as a dating scan. In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about early pregnancy scans, including what to expect during the procedure and what the results can tell you.
Why is an early pregnancy scan important?
An early pregnancy scan is an important part of prenatal care and is used to confirm a pregnancy, check for any potential problems, and determine an accurate due date. During the scan, the sonographer will use the ultrasound images to check for the presence of a gestational sac and a fetal heartbeat. This will confirm that the pregnancy is viable and that the baby is developing normally.
The scan can also be used to check for any potential problems, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. If there are any concerns, the sonographer will discuss them with you and recommend any further tests or treatments that may be necessary.
What can you expect during an early pregnancy scan?
During the early pregnancy scan, you’ll lie on a bed and a gel will be applied to your abdomen. The sonographer will then use a small hand-held transducer to produce images of the baby inside the uterus. The images will be displayed on a screen and the sonographer will explain what they see.
The procedure is non-invasive and considered safe for both the mother and the baby. It typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and you’ll be able to see the images of your baby on the screen. Some healthcare providers will also provide you with a picture to take home.
What do the results of an early pregnancy scan tell you?
The results of an early pregnancy scan can tell you a variety of things, including:
- Confirmation of a pregnancy
- Presence of a gestational sac and a fetal heartbeat
- Estimated due date
- Number of babies (if more than one)
- Detection of any potential problems, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy
It’s important to note that while an early pregnancy scan can provide a lot of information, it’s not always 100% accurate. In some cases, the baby’s position may make it difficult to get a clear image or to determine certain information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an early pregnancy scan is an important part of prenatal care that can provide valuable information about the health of your baby and the pregnancy. It’s a non-invasive and safe procedure that can confirm a pregnancy, determine an accurate due date, and check for any potential problems. If you have any questions or concerns about an early pregnancy scan, be sure to speak with your healthcare provider.