Is there any Preparation?
Preparation Instructions for Pregnancy under 12 weeks gestation:
- Continue with any medication you may be taking
- Gradually drink 750mls of water, starting 1½ hours before your appointment time
- Please finish drinking the 750mls of water ½ hour before your appointment time.
- Do not empty bladder
Procedure
A clear gel is applied to the area to be examined. The ultrasound probe is then placed in contact with the skin and moved over the surface to study the tissues below. The scan is completely painless, although pressure may be applied to improve the view in some areas. Please tell the sonographer should this become uncomfortable.
In some female pelvic scans, we may suggest using a transvaginal probe to get a closer view of the pelvic organs. A transvaginal scan is frequently performed early in pregnancy (12 weeks or less). There may also be some indications for this procedure later in the pregnancy. The transvaginal scan is performed with an empty bladder, and as a result many patients find it more comfortable. The small sterilised probe, about the same diameter as a thumb, is lubricated with gel before insertion into the vagina. A protective cover (a condom) is placed over the transducer each time it is used, so there is no risk of infection. We only offer a transvaginal study if it may be of benefit, but it is your decision. If you have an objection to a transvaginal ultrasound being performed, please inform the sonographer.
An ultrasound will provide valuable information about your pregnancy:
- Help determine the due date of your baby
- Check the number of babies
- Determine if the pregnancy is continuing normally if there has been any bleeding early in the pregnancy
- Check the position of the placenta
- Check the anatomy of the baby
- Assess the growth of the baby and its well-being
Not all birth defects are reliably diagnosed with ultrasound and a normal scan is not an absolute guarantee of a normal baby.