Ultrasound scans
A pregnancy ultrasound scan is a procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to make an image of the developing baby as well as the mother’s reproductive organs. An ultrasound scan, also called a sonogram, can help monitor normal fetal development and screen for any potential problems.
Until 10 weeks of pregnancy an ultrasound scan is usually performed internally as it is easier to view the, still smaller, uterus that way. With an internal scan your bladder should be empty for the best results. In case of bloodloss or when looking for the position of the placenta the scan will also be made internally. After the first 10 weeks of pregnancy the uterus is big enough to perform the ultrasound scan abdominally. Up till 20 weeks the scan will be easier to make abdominally when your bladder is full.
Reasons for a pregnancy ultrasound scan
- check for intra-uterine pregnancy
- check vitality of the pregnancy
- determine the gestational age of the baby (due date scan)
- check for congenital abnormalities or birth defects (20 week scan)
- check the baby’s position
- check the amount of amniotic fluid
- check the baby’s growth
- check the position of the placenta
The due date scan and the 20 week scan are covered by your health insurance as is any other scan that your midwife deems medicaly necessary.
Sometimes an ultrasound scan can give a result that requires extra evaluation. In that case we will contact your midwife and she will refer you to a specialist for further examination. This does not always mean that something is wrong with your baby but it can cause some anxiety until a final answer is given. With the current equipment we can scan the baby thoroughly but there is never a garantee that your baby is healthy.
Who makes the scans?
At Echo Amsterdam the ultrasound scans are performed by highly qualified and experienced ultrasound practitioners to guarantee the highest quality of pregnancy ultrasound scans possible. It is possible that a trainee is present at your scan.
