• Transvaginal Ultrasound: What to Expect Before, During and After the Procedure. Ultrasound in early pregnancy: everything you need to know

    27.07.2019

    Ultrasound examination during pregnancy is one of the mandatory diagnostic procedures. During normal gestation, it is prescribed 2-3 times throughout the entire period.

    If there are any problems or suspicions of deviations, then an additional examination is prescribed. The frequency of procedures is determined by the gynecologist, based on the girl’s health condition. How often can an ultrasound be done? early stages pregnancy and how does this diagnostic affect the condition of the fetus?

    How does an ultrasound machine work?

    Ultrasound is the most affordable way diagnostics of intrauterine development of the baby. In addition, this is the most significant prenatal test, which allows you to obtain detailed information about the development of the embryo in the womb in the early stages of pregnancy. It helps to notice abnormalities in fetal development even in the first weeks after conception.

    Ultrasound examination is considered the most painless procedure. During the examination, gel is applied to the girl’s stomach, after which the gynecologist moves the sensor to the places where the heartbeat is best heard. The methodology of the device is based on the principle of an echolocator. The sensor emits special ultrasonic beams that pass through skin, tissues and organs.

    The sensor, using waves, collects all the detailed information about the placenta and embryo, and then transmits it to the device itself. The equipment processes the information and displays detailed information visually on the PC screen. The whole procedure takes about 10–15 minutes.

    Types of ultrasound examination during pregnancy

    There are 4 main types of research.

    These include:

    1. Transvaginal ultrasound (intravaginal). This diagnostic method is used in the first trimester of pregnancy (up to 11–12 weeks). The sensor penetrates inside the pelvic cavity and displays a complete picture of the intrauterine development of the embryo. Helps identify abnormal structure of the placenta and cervix. Most effective method in the first months of pregnancy.
    2. Doppler ultrasound (ultrasound with blood flow). A special device helps not only to detect the progress of pregnancy, but also determines the quantity and quality of blood circulation inside the woman. Doppler is performed both vaginally and abdominally. Made as part prenatal screening, and perinatal research.
    3. Prenatal screening. Most often it is carried out in combination with a biochemical blood test. Reveals chromosomal abnormalities fetus The procedure is performed by a sonologist. The difference between this method is that the doctor’s examination is aimed at identifying exactly the pathological processes in the body that lead to abnormal deformations of the placenta and fetus.
    4. Cardiography. A type of diagnosis that, like Doppler, allows for timely detection of fetal hypoxia. But its difference is that the device uses ultrasound rays to record only the heartbeat of the embryo, the frequency of uterine contractions and the intrauterine movement of the fetus.

    Each type of diagnosis can be prescribed at any period of gestation. The doctor decides what type of diagnosis will be prescribed in a particular case, taking into account the patient’s medical history.

    Frequency of ultrasound procedures during pregnancy

    At normal development embryo and the absence of problems, the woman is prescribed 3 ultrasound procedures for the entire period of gestation. Each event is held once per trimester.

    All screening studies have a specific goal:

    1. First ultrasound (from 11 to 13 weeks, sometimes scheduled for 6 weeks). With its help you can see the very fact of fertilization. In addition, it helps determine how the placenta has settled (uterine or ectopic pregnancy). In the early stages of pregnancy, the device determines whether the baby has Down syndrome and whether the limbs and head are developing correctly;
    2. Second diagnosis (from 17 to 22 weeks). Determines the level of development of the child’s internal organs and brain. Special attention focused on the formation of the heart. The procedure helps to see heart defects. The location of the placenta and the amount of fluid are also taken into account.
    3. Third ultrasound examination (from 30 to 36 weeks). The last tests before childbirth help protect a woman from possible consequences during childbirth and determine the baby’s body weight, height and speed of development. Quantity is being determined amniotic fluid And individual characteristics placenta. The gynecologist checks to see if the baby is entangled in the umbilical cord. After the last examination, the method of birth (natural or caesarean section) is determined.

    If the fetus is not developing very well and deviations from the norm are found during diagnosis, then the attending physician has the right to prescribe additional laboratory tests to confirm the diagnosis.

    What is the basis for ordering additional examinations?

    Sometimes he prescribes more than 2–3 ultrasound examinations. How many procedures are required is determined by the length of pregnancy and the woman’s health status.

    Additional laboratory measures are prescribed if there are such indications:

    • ill health of the expectant mother - if the girl has a feeling of discomfort, there is pain in the lower abdomen or abdominal cavity, dark ones appeared copious discharge, it is best to undergo an additional examination to identify the causes of poor health;
    • viral and infectious diseases- if a girl suffers this type of illness in the early stages of pregnancy, then the doctor prescribes additional tests to determine whether there are complications in the body;
    • if in the third trimester a woman no longer feels the baby move, then this is a reason to undergo an unscheduled examination; perhaps oxygen starvation, a frozen pregnancy or fetal death will be detected;
    • when the baby begins to actively move before the scheduled 3rd examination, and the girl has premature contractions, an emergency 3D ultrasound is prescribed;
    • if the third diagnosis reveals fetal presentation or any other deviations from the norm, then a repeat ultrasound is prescribed to determine in what way the girl will give birth.

    For any deviations from the norm or suspicion of abnormal processes, the treating doctor may prescribe additional medical events which will help identify the problem and determine an accurate diagnosis.

    Myths about ultrasound diagnostics

    Today there are quite a lot of myths about ultrasound. After reading them, girls are afraid to go for examination or refuse it altogether, which can negatively affect the development of the fetus.

    The most common myths:

    1. Fetal testing can cause gene mutations. Allegedly, the emitted waves change the structure of DNA and provoke a mutation in the embryo. No scientific evidence of such anomalies has been identified. Scientists conducting experiments in this area claim that the hypothesis has not been confirmed.
    2. Ultrasound harms the baby and causes pain. Some children can actively react to any external stimuli. Therefore, during diagnosis, it is not known exactly what the baby reacts to (stroking on the stomach, the voice of the mother or doctor, the coolness of the gel, pressure, emotional excitement of the girl). Any movements of the child in the womb do not mean that he is in pain or unpleasant.
    3. If the pregnancy is progressing normally, an ultrasound does not make sense. This is also a myth. Even if the child develops calmly and the girl does not experience symptoms that cause anxiety, there may be hidden abnormalities. If your doctor prescribes an additional procedure, you need to visit it. This will help identify hidden defects and anomalies that develop asymptomatically and protect the baby and mother from possible serious consequences.

    There are quite a lot of opinions and myths about diagnostic measures during pregnancy. You shouldn't listen to everyone. It is important to listen to and follow the recommendations and prescriptions of a qualified doctor. Only he knows when and why laboratory activities need to be carried out, and whether it is necessary at all.

    Is ultrasound harmful during pregnancy?

    Despite the fact that this examination method is the safest, most effective and in demand. It has its pros and cons.

    Benefit

    The main advantage of the procedure is maximum information content and safety. Only ultrasound can determine in the first weeks of pregnancy how it is developing and what the timing of conception is.

    In addition, the examination does not cause pain to the expectant mother and baby. A woman does not need to prepare for a long time to see a doctor. There are no special restrictions or rules, which greatly simplifies the test procedure.

    The examination can be performed several times per trimester without any harm to the fetus. The test results provide detailed information about his development and his health. And also a woman in the second trimester has the opportunity to see the child inside her body.

    Harm

    How dangerous is the procedure, what impact does it have? Although the procedure is safe for pregnant girls, doctors still do not recommend performing it too often. It is best if such an examination occurs once every trimester.

    Scientists have not proven any harm from the device. According to doctors, when correct use and planned use of ultrasound will bring only positive results.

    The clear answer to the question of whether ultrasound is harmful for pregnant women is no, it is not harmful. And the benefits of the procedure, on the contrary, are multiple.

    Is it worth getting tested?

    According to experts, every pregnant girl should undergo an ultrasound examination at least once during the entire period of bearing a baby. If at the first examination no defects were detected and all tests are normal, then the gynecologist may no longer prescribe an ultrasound examination. But if there are any deviations, then it’s worth going through and making sure that the child is developing correctly.

    If the pregnancy was quite difficult, then the woman must be examined for later gestation. This is necessary so that the obstetrician-gynecologist can clarify the weight, height and amount of amniotic fluid. This will help determine whether a woman can give birth on her own or whether surgical assistance will be needed. In any case, the girl herself decides whether to undergo the examination or not. But for the safety and preservation of the fetus, it is best not to give it up.

    The video will show how safe ultrasound is and how often it can be done.

    Conclusion

    Getting tested, undergoing tests and examinations is an integral part of pregnancy. The girl should be prepared for the fact that during pregnancy she will have to undergo a lot of tests and undergo ultrasound several times.

    All these procedures are necessary in order to minimize the risks of problems during pregnancy. Ultrasound examination is a painless, fast and safe diagnostic method. It is recommended to carry it out every trimester to constantly monitor the correct development of the fetus.

    Progress in the medical industry has made it possible to successfully cope with health problems and identify them early stages. This, in turn, is the key to the effectiveness of treatment and good health. The above applies to devices ultrasound diagnostics. Thanks to them, women today not only know who exactly will be born to them, but are also under reliable control for all 9 months.

    Vaginal ultrasound has become a new stage in the development of ultrasound diagnostics. We will talk about him and his role for expectant mothers.

    Ultrasound abilities

    Modern ultrasound equipment allows you to examine the uterus, cervix, vagina, the fallopian tubes, ovaries and bladder. Ultrasound examination using a vaginal probe has several advantages. Firstly, it does not require filling Bladder and therefore more comfortable for patients. Secondly, such a sensor allows you to more clearly visualize the organs being examined, so the quality of such diagnostics is much higher. In addition, vaginal diagnostics diagnoses pregnancy at an earlier stage than usual. Everyone knows that this procedure is absolutely safe for health. That is, such diagnostics is a fast, economical and comfortable method of examination and does not require special training.

    Indications for vaginal ultrasound are the diagnosis of gynecological diseases and pregnancy in the early stages, monitoring its progress, folliculometry, monitoring the condition of the IUD and the woman’s condition after removal. There are no contraindications to such an ultrasound; it can be performed on any day of the cycle.

    During a vaginal ultrasound, the doctor can diagnose congenital anomalies of the uterus, endometriosis, fibroids or leiomyomas, hyperplasia, polyps, and malignant tumors. In the presence of these diseases, ongoing research can monitor the progress of treatment, changes in the size of tumors or the final cure of patients.

    For preventive purposes, vaginal ultrasound of the pelvic organs is recommended for women over 40 once a year.

    Vaginal ultrasound during pregnancy

    Nowadays, ultrasound is a reliable and common way of examining a woman during pregnancy. Vaginal ultrasound diagnoses different types: tubal, cervical, ovarian.

    If in the later stages in most cases an abdominal sensor is used (traditional ultrasound), then in the first trimester preference is given to the transvaginal ultrasound technique. This technique most accurately displays an image of the uterus on the monitor with developing fetus. Since pregnancy is visible much earlier with this ultrasound, problems in the development of the embryo can be diagnosed at the earliest stages.

    By the way, to carry out this procedure you must have a condom. It is placed on the sensor purely for hygienic purposes. Any classic pharmacy condom is suitable for this.

    So, what are the indications for a vaginal ultrasound for expectant mothers in the early stages?

    1. Determining the presence of pregnancy.
    2. Monitoring fetal development.
    3. Diagnosis of threatened pregnancy.
    4. Assessment of the periuterine space.
    5. Diagnosis of uterine fibroids.

    After the first trimester, the use of such ultrasound is not very common. It is done to assess the condition of the cervix, the ability to retain the amniotic sac, diagnose placenta previa, and assess the condition of the uterine scar after a CS.

    Pregnant women often wonder how harmless such an ultrasound is and how often it can be performed. Transvaginal ultrasound is safe and there are no restrictions on the number of diagnostics performed this way. As for the protection of the baby in the uterus from the sensor, there is nothing to worry about at all. The vaginal sensor does not reach the child and does not even come into close contact with him. The ultrasound wave is absolutely harmless to the fetus, and the benefits and possibilities of such research are extremely significant.

    Good news and sunny mood to you!

    Especially for Elena TOLOCHIK

    Every woman should carefully monitor the condition of her genitals and reproductive system, regardless of age. In order to promptly diagnose deviations from the norm, you should visit a gynecologist from time to time. There are often situations when a routine examination is not enough to identify pathology, determine the type of disease, its severity and prescribe appropriate treatment. In such cases, the patient is sent for a transvaginal ultrasound. Unfortunately, not all representatives of the fair sex agree to this method of research: some are afraid of painful sensations, others are confused by the algorithm of the procedure itself. However, if circumstances require it, and health is at stake, you should not refuse this type of diagnosis.

    Transvaginal ultrasound (ultrasound examination) is a technique for studying the organs of the reproductive system and the entire pelvis, in which a special device is inserted into the vagina. The vaginal ultrasound sensor, on the one hand, is a source of ultrasonic waves, on the other, a receiver of information about the nature of their passage through the structures under study. Before carrying out this form of diagnosis, it is usually not necessary to undergo various types of tests - smear, blood test, urine test, and so on.

    Carrying out an ultrasound transvaginally and vaginally (which is the same thing) allows you to examine all the necessary organs in close proximity. The waves passing through the tissues of the body will have to travel a minimum distance, which will have a positive effect on the accuracy of the result and will allow us to obtain the clearest picture of the condition women's health. This method makes it possible to timely diagnose both serious diseases and minor deviations from the norm. Based on the results of a transvaginal ultrasound examination, the gynecologist will be able to prescribe the necessary treatment.

    What diseases can it diagnose?

    A gynecological examination using ultrasound allows for the timely detection and treatment of a number of diseases, so it is best to undergo this procedure as early as possible if one of the following diseases is suspected, or if the following conditions are recorded:

    • malignant or benign formations that arise in the appendages;
    • ovarian cyst;
    • endometriosis - with this disease, cells located in the inner layer of the uterine epithelium begin to penetrate other layers or even neighboring tissues;
    • formation of internal bleeding of varying intensity;
    • delay or complete absence of menstruation and other hormonal cycle disorders;
    • suppuration of the uterine cavity or appendages; it is also possible to promptly determine the presence of fluid accumulated there;
    • the need to determine the exact location of the embryo in case of suspected development of an ectopic pregnancy;
    • any inflammation of the uterine epithelium;
    • other pathological processes expressed in disturbances in the structure and functioning of the reproductive system.

    Indications and contraindications

    Ultrasonography is prescribed based on the results of an examination by a gynecologist. If the doctor suspects certain diseases, he prescribes an ultrasound performed directly through the woman’s vagina. There are a number of indications in which a specialist will definitely refer a woman for a transvaginal scan using ultrasound beams. These include the following symptoms:

    • minor bloody issues from the vagina before or after the onset of menstruation;
    • heavy bleeding, also unrelated to menstrual bleeding, including uterine bleeding;
    • various kinds painful sensations occurring in the lower abdomen or lumbar region;
    • prolonged menstruation that lasts 7 days or more;
    • unusual vaginal discharge that has an unpleasant odor;
    • if the gynecologist suspects the occurrence of various pathologies in the pelvic area of ​​inflammatory or infectious origin;
    • probable development of ectopic pregnancy;
    • patient complaints of pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse;
    • existing infectious diseases that are transmitted through direct sexual contact;
    • developed infertility;
    • installed uterine device;
    • various types of diseases of the genitourinary system;
    • if a woman is pregnant in the early stages.

    This type of ultrasound is most often performed on obese women, as the traditional procedure through the abdominal wall usually does not provide a clear picture. Due to the presence of a large amount of adipose tissue, the waves pass to the organs of the reproductive system and are reflected from them in a distorted form.

    There are no contraindications for the woman’s health regarding this procedure. If the girl has not yet lost her virginity, transvaginal ultrasound is replaced by transrectal ultrasound, that is, the device is inserted not into the vagina, but into the rectum. The only restriction regarding such a procedure is related to pregnancy - it can only be performed in the early stages, that is, no later than the 12th week.

    How to prepare and is it harmful?

    There are no requirements to prepare for a transvaginal ultrasound scan. When visiting a specialist, you must have a diaper or towel with you, on which the patient lies during the procedure itself. In the case when the study is performed during pregnancy, moderate fullness of the bladder will be required - this means you will have to drink about 0.5 liters of liquid an hour before the procedure.

    Another important condition for transvaginal examination of a woman’s genital tract is the absence of gases in the intestines. To achieve optimal results, literally a couple of days before the procedure, you should exclude from your diet foods and dishes that can lead to increased formation of gases:

    • bread;
    • fruits;
    • vegetables;
    • dairy products;
    • confectionery products.

    You can take drugs that reduce the intensity of the gas formation process - activated carbon, enzistal and other similar agents. It is not at all necessary to do a cleansing enema before the actual examination. Ultrasound examination of the appendages does not have to be performed on an empty stomach - there are no indications for this. It is worth noting that in the event of an emergency, this procedure can be performed without any preparation, however, the information content of ultrasound in this case may be much lower.

    There are no restrictions regarding how often this procedure can be done, with the exception of pregnancy. Ultrasound is recommended to be performed in the first half menstrual cycle- approximately on the 5th...7th day after the end of the last menstruation. Women have a logical question: on what day does the test hurt? In principle, there should be no painful sensations during an ultrasound; some discomfort is possible, but nothing more.

    It is not recommended to conduct research in the second half of the menstrual cycle. This is due to the fact that the endometrium of the uterus will be in the secretory phase, as a result of which the result obtained may be misinterpreted.

    How they do it

    The procedure is quite simple and does not require special additional tools. The patient needs to lie on her back, remove clothing below the waist, raise and spread her legs. The specialist must put a condom on the sensor, lubricate it with a special gel and insert it into the woman’s vagina. This may be somewhat unpleasant, but the pain occurs in in this case only when severe inflammatory processes occur in the reproductive organs. During the procedure, the doctor may press slightly on the patient’s abdomen so that the sensor makes better contact with the internal organs and the picture is clearer. This procedure does not take too much time - only about 15-20 minutes. If certain pathologies are suspected, it may take up to half an hour, since the specialist needs to carefully examine the affected areas.

    During pregnancy

    TVUS (transvaginal ultrasound) is a mandatory procedure for pregnant women, as it can clearly see whether the fetus is developing correctly. There will be no harm to the embryo. It is better for the mother not to refuse such manipulation, since in the future this can result in quite serious consequences.

    The doctor will quickly determine how correctly the fetus is developing, where it is located ovum and so on. As mentioned earlier, transvaginal ultrasound is performed only in the early stages of pregnancy.

    Which days of the menstrual cycle are suitable for the procedure?

    To conduct research in healthy women for preventive purposes, the first half of the menstrual cycle will be most suitable. If the patient has previously been diagnosed with endometriosis, then an ultrasound is performed in the second phase - this makes it possible to most accurately examine the position of the uterine cells and determine the intensity with which they grow into other tissues. To analyze folliculogenesis (the process of formation and development of ovarian follicles), it is advisable to carry out the procedure on certain days of the menstrual cycle - the most suitable for this purpose will be the 5th, 9th, 11th...14th and 15th.

    Decoding the results

    The described procedure allows you to get the most full information not only about the state of the woman’s reproductive system and pelvic organs, but also to determine whether the pregnancy is proceeding correctly. The specialist conducting the scan will issue an appropriate conclusion based on the results of the study, the information content of which is significantly higher compared to an abdominal examination. During the decryption process, attention will be paid to a number of the following important parameters:

    • the location of the uterus and cervix, their density and structure, as well as physical dimensions;
    • the location of the ovaries, the presence or absence of seals in them, their general structure, and so on;
    • what condition is the visible part of the fallopian tubes in;
    • the presence or absence of fluid in the abdominal cavity. If it is there, the doctor will indicate its approximate volume;
    • all key characteristics of the ovaries.

    Possible pathologies

    TVUS examination reveals a large number of diseases of the female genital organs, pelvic organs and reproductive system. All existing pathologies that may arise during pregnancy will be diagnosed in a timely manner. In addition, examination through the rectum also allows you to assess the condition of the intestines. A wide range of diseases can be easily identified:

    • the presence of inflammatory processes of a very different nature;
    • chorionepithelioma (a malignant process arising from chorion cells);
    • ovarian cancer tumors, their possible physical damage;
    • accumulation of fluid in the pelvic area;
    • uterine fibroids;
    • ovarian or uterine cyst;
    • complete or partial hydatidiform mole.

    This procedure will allow you to determine whether the female body is ready to conceive a child - for this, the specialist will monitor the general condition of the ovaries and folliculogenesis. During an ultrasound examination, the doctor can inject a special harmless contrast agent into the fallopian tubes - this will determine the level of their patency. This procedure is one of the primary ones in the treatment of infertility. TVUS can also listen to the baby's heartbeat when the pregnancy is 5 weeks or more.

    How much does the procedure cost?

    Most public hospitals and clinics are usually equipped with specialized equipment that allows high-quality ultrasound examinations of this kind. It is also available in private clinics. The cost of this procedure depends directly on the pricing policy medical institution, as well as from the region of the country. It is quite logical that in capital cities you will have to pay significantly more money for it than in the provinces. The average cost of a transvaginal ultrasound ranges from one to three thousand rubles.

    Ultrasound transvaginal examination (ultrasound) - real chance assess the development of pregnancy in the early stages from a professional point of view. It allows you to reveal everything possible deviations and problems, to clearly see the fertilized egg, its location in the uterus, as well as a lot of other nuances. As a result of the examination, the doctor can establish an accurate diagnosis if a woman has any problems. Should I do an ultrasound in the early stages of pregnancy? Can it harm the baby? Let's look at all the nuances of the procedure.

    Read in this article

    When should the first ultrasound be done?

    Quite rarely, a woman herself decides to undergo examination. Most likely, she does this due to her worries or inexperience, simply delaying the moment of visiting the doctor. In all other cases, ultrasound of pregnancy in the early stages is prescribed only by a specialist and no earlier than 12-13 weeks. Before this period, the doctor may refer the patient for an unscheduled examination when he has doubts or suspicions of deviations from the normal course of pregnancy. Also, the reason for the analysis may be nagging and aching pain that has appeared, previous miscarriages, frozen pregnancy, suspected pregnancy. All this will help you take timely action.

    Duration of ultrasound transvaginal examination Why is it carried out, what can you find out from the results
    1-3 weeks after conception Research at this time is carried out quite rarely. A harbinger may be the doctor’s suspicion of ectopic pregnancy. The mother will also be examined during this period after IVF. Based on the results, the presence of pregnancy, its course, its duration will be accurately determined, and problems will also be identified if the delay in menstruation did not occur due to conception.
    3-4 weeks pregnant The ultrasound specialist can examine the umbilical cord, ear buds and limbs. The fruit at this period is still very small, only 2-4 mm. However, parents can already receive his first “photo.” And from the fifth week you can even hear the heartbeat, which is normally 100 beats per minute.
    10-11 weeks after conception In the third month of pregnancy, the doctor can already assess the anatomy of the fetus based on ultrasound results. Based on them, he will also check for the presence of deviations and pathological threats to the pregnancy and life of the child. For example, if by the 11th week the nasal bone has not formed, then in this case the specialist will suspect the presence of chromosomal abnormalities. At this time, the threat of miscarriage, if any, will also be established.
    12-14 weeks of pregnancy During this period, deviations from the norm become more obvious, since the child’s organs and body are better formed. At this stage, the main attention is paid to the thickness of the collar space, the location of the femurs and the distance between them, the length of the body, and the size of the head. Particular attention will be paid to internal organs, the outlines of which will become more pronounced. And even the brain will not be left without attention, so an ultrasound at this stage is very informative and significant.

    The doctor will also assess the condition of the amniotic fluid, placenta, uterine tone and other important data on the mother’s condition.

    On the positive side: parents can take the first video, which will clearly show the baby’s movements in the womb, his facial expressions and heartbeat.

    Week 15 At this time, those who for some reason did not have time to complete it earlier undergo the first study. At week 15, the fetus’s heart can be heard well, and the central nervous system and skeleton are intensively formed. The average weight of a child at this stage is only 70 g, but his height reaches 10 cm.

    An ultrasound to determine pregnancy in the early stages can be both the first joyful event in the life of mother and child, and a reason for serious worry. Before you start worrying, make sure of the doctor’s qualifications, the accuracy and quality of the equipment, and be sure to get advice from another specialist if pathologies are identified. It is recommended to perform a repeat ultrasound using the same equipment used for the first examination.

    Unscheduled research

    If at 11-14 weeks all indicators were normal, then the next ultrasound is scheduled for 18-22 weeks of pregnancy. After the first time, the studies will be carried out again in the near future either on the recommendation of the doctor or at the request of the parents.

    At week 16, those who are especially impatient can find out who they are expecting - a boy or a girl? In addition, young parents will be able to observe the child’s facial expressions. His smirks, smiles and even furrowed eyebrows can delight the most serious dads. If the doctor prescribed the referral, then at this stage the suspicion of Down syndrome in the fetus is confirmed or refuted.

    How is a transvaginal ultrasound examination performed on a pregnant woman?

    A woman’s first ultrasound during pregnancy is the same as a routine examination when planning or suspecting a disease before conception: future mom lies down on the couch, her stomach is lubricated with a special gel and a sensor is installed. On the monitor, for a non-professional, only white-gray-black stains and circles will be visible, but the ultrasound specialist will be able to examine the uterine cavity, the length of the cervix, the state of the fertilized egg, the state of the placenta, and the presence of formations in the mother’s pelvis. Pregnancy determination by ultrasound in the early stages is carried out mainly using a vaginal sensor.

    The operating principle of the device is similar to an echolocator: ultrasound waves are reflected from tissues and the fetus and display a silhouette on the monitor. Since ultrasound is performed in the early stages of pregnancy with a vaginal sensor that reacts to fluid, some are confident that the study can cause pathologies in the child’s brain development. No need to worry! No case has yet been identified where 100% healthy woman and the baby would have confirmed this.

    It is worth noting that ultrasound during early pregnancy is quite uninformative, so doing it just like that is not recommended. And, even more so, if you want to make sure that conception has occurred, or due to any other unimportant factors. It’s better to do it again or.

    In the first weeks of implantation of a fertilized egg, the uterus needs rest. Unnecessary interference in the natural process is completely unjustified! If there are no recommendations for a doctor’s examination, then it is better to postpone satisfying your curiosity until 11-12 weeks.

    The danger of ultrasound: myth or reality?

    The debate about whether ultrasound is harmful in early pregnancy continues to this day. Even foreign doctors cannot confirm for sure that ultrasound waves can affect the brain, leading to its changes. The thing is that the period of research should be quite long; women with a “crystal” anamnesis are selected from pregnant women and, of course, are ready to risk their child. Naturally, there are only a few of them, and there is not always enough money and energy for long-term observation.

    It is impossible to prove the direct influence of ultrasound waves, as well as the harm of ultrasound in the early stages of pregnancy! Doctors only recommend not to abuse the procedure, so as not to expose yourself and your child to possible danger!

    Is ultrasound dangerous in early pregnancy? The question is rather rhetorical. Yes and no. The situation is similar to taking pills: there is a potential danger, but they are prescribed when the benefit outweighs the risk. After all, the ability to diagnose the development of pathology in the fetus, notice in time a detached placenta or other deviations from the norm contribute to the timely provision of assistance and solution to the problem that has arisen.

    What to do if spotting starts after an ultrasound

    Ultrasound diagnosis of pregnancy in the early stages itself cannot provoke bleeding or spotting. But the experiences of a pregnant woman are very capable! If suddenly, after visiting the ultrasound doctor’s office, you notice any deviations in your usual state, do not delay contacting an obstetrician-gynecologist! In case it is worth calling ambulance without delay!


    The fact that the embryo feels the impact of ultrasound waves is a proven fact. A very tiny baby can hide, cover his face with his hands, and his overall activity increases. Some compare the impact to the approach of a train: it arrived, made noise, scared and left. And then the usual silence and calm sets in. If you do an ultrasound in due date and on the recommendation of a doctor, there is no need to worry and stress yourself out. After all, the child feels everything the same as the mother! Remember that the benefits of research are much greater than potential threat from exposure. May everything be fine for you and your child!

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