How Ultrasound Assists in Monitoring Pregnancy Health

From the moment a pregnancy is confirmed, ultrasound imaging plays a key role in monitoring the baby's development and the mother's health. These ultrasound pregnancy scans allow doctors to assess fetal growth, detect potential complications, and provide reassurance to expecting parents. At Mid Nassau OBGYN, our team utilizes advanced ultrasound technology to guide obstetrics and prenatal care at each stage of pregnancy.

Understanding when to schedule ultrasounds, what they measure, and how they contribute to a healthy pregnancy can help expectant parents feel more informed and prepared. Keep reading to learn more about the importance of ultrasounds during pregnancy in Massapequa, NY.

When should you get your first ultrasound during pregnancy?

For most women, the first ultrasound is performed between 6 – 9 weeks of pregnancy. This first pregnancy ultrasound confirms the pregnancy itself and provides important details about gestational age, the baby's heartbeat, and whether the pregnancy involves one or more fetuses. Additionally, it allows our physicians to check that the pregnancy is properly implanted inside the uterus, reducing concerns about complications such as an ectopic pregnancy.

Some women may need an early ultrasound, especially if they have a history of miscarriage, irregular periods, or symptoms such as cramping or spotting. If necessary, further ultrasounds will be scheduled to monitor fetal progress.

How often do you get ultrasounds during pregnancy?

The frequency of pregnancy ultrasounds will depend on individual patient factors, including the mother's health, medical history, and potential pregnancy complications. However, most patients follow a standard ultrasound schedule during pregnancy, which may look something like the following:

• First trimester (6 – 9 weeks): Initial ultrasound to confirm pregnancy, estimate due date, and check fetal heartbeat
• Second trimester (18 – 22 weeks): Detailed anatomy scan to assess fetal development, confirm gender, and evaluate organ structure
• Third trimester (after 28 weeks, if needed): Growth scans to monitor the baby's size and position, especially in high-risk pregnancies

Additional ultrasounds may be required if there are concerns about fetal growth, amniotic fluid levels, or maternal health conditions.

What is measured during a pregnancy ultrasound?

Ultrasound imaging during pregnancy provides a comprehensive look at fetal development, helping our doctors ensure that everything is progressing as expected. Some of the most important factors measured during an ultrasound include fetal size and weight, heartbeat and movement, amniotic fluid levels, and placental health. During the second-trimester anatomy scan, doctors carefully examine the baby's brain, spine, heart, limbs, and organs to confirm that development is on track. If any irregularities are detected, follow-up testing or specialized ultrasounds may be recommended.

Why do you need ultrasounds during pregnancy?

Regular ultrasounds are essential for tracking pregnancy progress and identifying potential issues early. These scans allow doctors to detect growth restrictions, congenital abnormalities, and fetal positioning concerns, ensuring that the right medical interventions are in place if needed. For women with high-risk pregnancies, such as those with gestational diabetes or a history of complications, more frequent ultrasounds may be necessary.

By monitoring the baby's growth and health, our knowledgeable and caring team can make informed decisions about prenatal care and delivery planning to ensure the smoothest experience possible while protecting your and your child's health and safety.

Get peace of mind and an exciting look at your growing baby with a prenatal ultrasound in Massapequa, NY

Routine ultrasounds provide essential information that supports a healthy pregnancy and peace of mind for expectant parents. At Mid Nassau OBGYN, our team is committed to providing comprehensive prenatal care, starting with state-of-the-art ultrasound technology. If you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or have other questions about when to schedule an ultrasound, don't hesitate to call to schedule a prenatal appointment with one of our OBGYNs in Massapequa, NY today.