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My First Ultrasound

Ultrasounds are used in pregnancy to check a baby’s development and pick up abnormalities. There are various types of ultrasound available for you to choose from.

Basic information on an ultrasound that can be useful to first timers when choosing the type of scanning that you should go for:

No.	Scanning Type	Features
1.	2D (Dimensional) Scan	Least expensive. Does not harm the baby Safe and painless Most common type of scan available. Provides 2D images of baby. Performed by scanning mother’s abdomen & pelvic cavity, or vaginally. Able to capture image and monitor foetus growth and development.
2.	3D Scan, 4D Scan	Most expensive. Does not harm the baby Safe and painless Scan upon recommendation by doctor or upon request. Provide 3D or 4D images of the baby (depending on machine). Performed by scanning on mother’s abdomen & pelvic cavity, or vaginally. More graphic and detailed visual of the baby. Able to detect unseen abnormalities or problems compared to 2D scanning.
3.	Doppler Method	Measures blood flow in different parts of the baby’s body Used to detect ectopic pregnancy or other problems. Probe will be inserted into vagina. Better visual displayed due to the close proximity to foetus. Suitable for obese mothers and early stage pregnancies in which it is more superior than other scanning methods.

Notes – Reasons for Ultrasound:

Routine foetal ultrasound is conducted between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.
It is also conducted to check on the mum’s health; monitor and evaluate foetal growth and development (heartbeat, breathing, physical form, etc).
It can be a bonding experience to see your baby inside the womb.
To help determine the baby’s gestational age and due date (determine baby’s health according to its size and physical features).
To check the size and location of the placenta.
To confirm the number of babies – twins, etc.
Identify possible abnormalities (enable early intervention that can save your baby).
Identify baby’s gender (results are not 100% accurate or conclusive)
To check the baby’s growth in the 3rd trimester if concerns arise.

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