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Posted on April 1, 2006 by Yong Moma | Posted under Pregnancy
Why You Should Have A Fetal Ultrasound
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The sound waves form a picture that is viewed on a screen that is similar to a television or computer monitor. The pictures can be in black and white, color, or other monochrome displays. They are often called an echogram or sonogram as well. This is a very safe way to ensure all is well with the fetus and to catch any problems early. It's also a safe way to ensure the fetus is growing correctly, is in the right position, and even the sex of the baby can be determined later in your pregnancy. An ultrasound can be done as early as the fifth week and it's common to have it done by the eight week. Your baby's sex can be determined around week 18. An ultrasound is used to determine the health of the fetus and gain valuable information during different trimesters. It does not have the radiation that x-rays have so it does not pose any harm to the fetus. Trimester 11. Determine the progression of the pregnancy2. Determine whether there is more than one fetus3. Estimate the fetus gestational age4. Determine the risk of a chromosome defects such as those that cause Down syndrome5. Check for spinal cord or brain birth defects. Trimester 21. Estimate the fetus gestational age2. Check the size of the fetus and its position3. Check the amniotic fluid and placenta4. Umbilical cord blood sampling for amniocentesis5. Detect for major birth defects like heart problems Trimester 31. Check to make sure the fetus is alive2. Check to make sure the fetus is moving properly3. Check the size and the position of the baby4. Check the placenta and amniotic fluidPreparing for your ultrasound is a very simple process. You will be asked to drink 4 or 5 glasses of water a few hours before your appointment so that your bladder is full. You will arrive at the lab for your appointment. Where loose clothing and you won't have to change into a gown. An ultrasound technician or radiologist will do the procedure. The full bladder pushes the uterus into a forward position and it helps to transmit the sound waves much better. If you haven't drunk enough water your bladder will be filled using a urinary catheter. Drinking enough water is a much easier way. You will be asked to lie on your back on the examination table. If you become lightheaded or short of breath tell the technician so that your can be positioned differently. Once you are comfortable a gel will be spread over your abdomen. Then the transducer is ran across your belly several times. You will feel pressure but it won't hurt. You can see the images on the screen. When the test is finished the gel is wiped off and you can go pee. The technician is trained to take the image however he or she is not trained to interpret the images. They will be read by a radiologist and then the information given to your gynecologist or obstetrician who will share the results with you. Sometimes a transvaginal ultrasound is done. In this case you don't need a full bladder. You will be asked to lie on your back and your hips will be slightly raised. A cover will be placed on the vaginal transducer and it will be inserted into the vagina. It will be adjusted until a clear image is seen. This procedure takes about 20 minutes the same length of time as a transabdominal ultrasound. This procedure can be a bit uncomfortable. A transabdominal ultrasound does not hurt. The gel may feel a bit cool on the tummy and you may feel slight pressure as the transducer moves across your belly. There are no known risks for mother or baby associated with the ultrasound. If a problem is detected you will likely feel anxiety and it is important that you speak with your doctor as soon as possible to determine your options. Some ultrasound centers offer what's called a �keepsake video� which captures your first baby photos. Although ultrasounds are safe overexposure for non medical reasons is not recommended. These keepsake videos often use higher levels to get good pictures at they are not recommended. You may not be able to have the test if you are obese, if you have air in the intestine, an abnormally low amniotic fluid, if the baby is in the wrong position, if you are unable to lie still, or if your baby is overactive. It's always encouraged that your husband or partner be with you during your ultrasound. It's a very special moment. Your due date may be adjusted depending on what your ultrasound shows. The effects of prolonged use of ultrasound has not yet been determined therefore you should not participate in nonmedical exposure. A fetal ultrasound is a valuable tool that is used by most doctors and it can be quite exciting for you too! About The Author: Yong has been working for a leading ultrasound manufacturer for last 8 years. At At http://www.ultrasoundlive.com he has provide information about different types of utlrassound equipments. Visit the website to get more information about ultrasound equipment and accessories. |
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