Your first ultrasound appointment is peppered with excitement, nervousness, curiosity and many other emotions. When you go to your appointment, make sure you are armed with the right questions that will help you understand the procedure, what it is for, and how it can benefit you and your baby. At this point, you’ve already had your first appointment, and this one will give you some better insight into your baby’s development.
- What is the purpose of the first ultrasound?
Your first ultrasound will usually be to check for the number of weeks into the pregnancy and the size of your baby. If the appointment is scheduled later in the first trimester, more anatomy can be seen, and more information can be gained. Ask your technician what they are looking for at this visit, and go over the findings with your doctor.
- What can be seen this early in the pregnancy?
In the first trimester, you are able to distinguish some physical features like the baby’s length, heart chambers/beating, and brain development. The technician or doctor can point out some of these things for you on the monitor or printout, and will discuss with you any areas that might need future evaluation.
- What are the risks and benefits of ultrasounds in pregnancy?
While there is not a lot in the literature supporting the idea of ultrasounds and risks/side effects, it is still safe to assume that overexposure to ultrasonic waves could have long term biological effects on the developing baby. There is benefit to using early ultrasound for detection of gestational age and to look for birth defects in the first trimester. Early detection of birth defects can help the parents and their health care providers discuss interventions that will allow your baby the best opportunities once they’re born. Dr. Gilbert Webb, a trusted resource in maternity care, says the use of a diagnostic ultrasound implies there should be a reason for doing the test. Make sure the procedure is necessary before agreeing to have it done.
- Can I keep pictures of my baby?
Most ultrasound facilities have a printed or digital copy of your ultrasound pictures available to you to take home and share with family. If you aren’t provided with these, make sure to ask for a copy if you’d like one.
- Will I need future ultrasounds?
This will depend on the nature of the pregnancy, whether it is considered high risk or not, if you decide to do a gender determination study, etc. Vitals.com says to talk with your doctor about whether it is necessary to do another ultrasound in the future.
