First Trimester

From (8 – 14 weeks) an ultrasound can be conducted to check the health of the pregnancy. This is the most important scan because it provides an overview of the pregnancy. By observing the uterus we can count the number of fetuses, check that they are developing normally and in the correct position. By measuring the fetus we are able to accurately predict the due date, which is especially helpful for women who have irregular periods. A fetus starts moving at eight weeks of pregnancy, the moving periods are followed by sleeping and relaxation phases.

Down Syndrome Screening (Nuchal Translucency Ultrasound combined with blood test)

Between 11 and 14 weeks of your pregnancy there is an opportunity to screen for common chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome. We assess every woman and her baby’s risk individually. by using high resolution ultrasound we look at the baby, we measure the Nuchal Translucency (the amount of fluid behind the baby’s neck), look for the presence of a nasal bone, check the heart rate and look at other common indicators.

 

 

 

Second Trimester

Detailed Organ Scan (Anomaly Scan)
This scan is performed between 19 and 22 weeks and is also known as a Risk Reassessment Scan.This is an in-depth observation of the fetus, checking for any abnormalities in the baby’s structural development and growth such as spina bifida, cleft clip and hole in the heart or VSD, looking especially at the major organs of the fetus. Special attention is paid to the brain, face, spine, heart, stomach, bowel, kidneys and limbs. In case any abnormality is detected is discussed with the parents and treatment can be done. During the course of the scan we also establish the position of the placenta, measure the growth of the fetus and check the levels of amniotic fluid. The aim of this scan is to ensure your baby’s well-being.

Cervical Screening
Cervical assessment is useful essentially to predict pregnancies at high-risk of early preterm delivery. A transvaginal ultrasound examination is required to accurately measure the length of the cervix. There is no known risk to a transvaginal ultrasound assessment in pregnancy.

Fetal Echocardiography
A detailed examination of the fetal heart and its connecting vessels is done. It is particularly recommended for those with increased Nuchal Translucency (NT) in first trimester, family history of fetal cardiac defect & in the presence of other fetal abnormalities. Maternal diabetes mellitus or those women are on antiepileptic medication are also offered a detailed cardiac scan as they are at increased risk.

 

 

 

Third Trimester

Fetal Well Being Scan This ultrasound is conducted after 24 weeks of pregnancy to check the health and well being of the baby and the placenta. During the scan the activity of the baby is observed, the head, femur and stomach are measured to monitor the baby’s growth and the amount of amniotic fluid is assessed. At the Fetal Medicine Centre we understand your excitement and joy as your pregnancy progresses. We offer you the opportunity to be reminded of this special time by keeping 3D/4D pictures and a DVD of your unborn baby as it develops and grows.