A pregnancy ultrasound is one of the most basic tests that are conducted after initial confirmation of the pregnancy. An ultrasound is conducted at normal intervals for determining the position and growth of the baby. It is generally utilized by the doctors for getting an accurate picture of a mother's pregnancy. Use of 3D pregnancy ultrasound is an extremely useful tool for diagnosis of the fetus in the mother's womb. In some of the countries, a routine ultrasound scanning is performed for identifying the potential defects of the baby before birth.

Researches have indicated that ultrasound scanning is extremely safe for an unborn child while other methods such as radiography are harmful for the fetus as it uses ionizing radiation. In an, a real-time scanner forms a continuous range of images of the fetus on a screen. Sound waves of very high frequency between 3.5 - 7.0 MHz are normally used in this procedure. A transducer is used for releasing these waves, which is kept in touch with the abdomen of the mother and is shifted around for looking at a particular aspect of her uterus.

How an ultrasound is done?

The recurring beams of the ultrasound scan the baby and go back to the transducer. The data obtained from the different reflections recomposes in the form of a picture on display screen. The gender of the child can normally be identified after 15 weeks of pregnancy but it largely depends upon the operators' aptitude and performance of the sonographic machine. Movements like fetal heartbeats and any possible malformations can be identified and essential measurements can also be accurately made based on the pictures displayed upon the monitor screen. 3D pregnancy ultrasound can also be helpful in identifying any structural abnormalities of the fetus.

Is it safe?

Ultrasound of the full bladder is necessary when scanning of the abdomen is performance at an early stage of pregnancy. It is relatively painless, safe and hassle free procedure but there may be uncomfortable sensations due to pressure upon the bladder. The conduction gel is stain free but can feel damp and cold to some extent. Otherwise, there are no harmful effects that can happen due to ultrasound rays.

During the first trimester of a pregnancy, these ultrasounds are conducted for checking the status of the woman's cervix, gestational sac, uterus, embryo and any other deep structures of the pelvic area. The 3D pregnancy ultrasound conducted during the 2nd and 3rd trimester is meant for getting a clear picture of the placenta and the fetus as well as for providing details about growth and position of the baby.

A pregnancy ultrasound is helpful for determining the exact age of the fetus and its status of development in various stages. The ultrasound can reveal if there is more than one fetus, whether there are any problems with the fetus or the placenta's position is accurate or not. Any problem with uterus or any abnormality during pregnancy can be revealed through a pregnancy ultrasound. There are no side effects of these tests and these should be done for ensuring smooth delivery and for making sure that the health of the mother is normal.