Preparing for your first pregnancy scan? Here’s what you need to know

While the experience of going for a pregnancy scan is undeniably exciting, it’s important to approach it with preparation and awareness.

We spoke with Dr. Marcus van Heerden, gynaecologist at Life St George's Hospital in Gqeberha, to give you a comprehensive understanding of the importance of foetal ultrasounds in monitoring your baby’s health and development.

What is an ultrasound in pregnancy?

An ultrasound, also known as a sonar scan, is a diagnostic tool used to assess the health and development of your baby. The technique uses high-frequency sound waves to generate images, called sonograms, by producing electrical signals.

Pregnancy care providers use ultrasounds to check on the health of your baby and detect certain pregnancy complications. They are administered by an obstetrician/gynaecologist or an ultrasound technician.

How does an ultrasound work during pregnancy?

Unlike an X-ray, an ultrasound uses sound waves and not radiation. During the scan, sound waves are sent through the abdomen or vagina using a device called a transducer. The sound waves bounce off structures in your body, including your baby and reproductive organs. The sound waves form images that can be seen on a screen.

What’s the difference between an ultrasound and a sonar scan?

‘There are no differences; sonar scans and ultrasounds are the same,’ assures Dr. Marcus.

‘Typically, expectant mothers only require two ultrasounds during pregnancy,’ he explains. ‘The first, a prenatal ultrasound, assesses the baby’s health and development, and is often administered at around 12 weeks. It’s instrumental in detecting chromosomal defects like trisomy 21 (Down syndrome).’

Dr. Marcus continues, ‘The second ultrasound, which is performed at around 20 weeks, identifies abnormalities in growth development. These abnormalities may include placental localisation, hypertension risks, or growth retardation.’

What else can you see through an ultrasound?

Ultrasounds play a pivotal role in pregnancy as they provide crucial insights into your baby's growth and overall health. During a scan, you can expect to see:

• Your baby's heartbeat
• Your baby’s size, which can help determine their due date
• The position your baby is lying in the womb, which is important to know before you give birth
• The development of your baby’s bones, organs (including the kidneys, bowel, brain, and heart), limbs, and spinal cord
• Whether you’ll be having one or more babies.

How can you prepare for your first ultrasound?

‘No preparation is needed for a transvaginal ultrasound. If the scan is going to be abdominal, then a full bladder is required during early pregnancy, so drink plenty of water beforehand’ advises Dr. Marcus.

If you’re feeling anxious about your first scan, Dr. Marcus recommends bringing along a support person, such as your spouse or partner, to help you feel more at ease.

What can you expect during an ultrasound?

For a transvaginal ultrasound, you may be asked to undress from the waist down and put on a hospital gown. For an abdominal ultrasound, you can stay dressed and may only be asked to unbutton your pants or remove them.

‘During an abdominal ultrasound, you will lie on an examining table. The sonographer will then apply a water-soluble solution to the skin on your stomach, which may feel cold,’ explains Dr. Marcus. ‘Next, a transducer will be placed on your abdomen and the sonographer will move it around to send sound waves into your body.’

He continues, ‘The sound waves will reflect to create images on a screen. The process should take about 30 minutes at most and you shouldn’t feel any discomfort aside from some light pressure from the transducer.’

If you have a transvaginal ultrasound, the process is similar, but the transducer is placed inside your vagina and not on your abdomen.

Are there any ultrasound machines you can purchase and use at home? If so, how safe and accurate are they?

‘Foetal ultrasounds should only be performed by an experienced medical professional, or a person who has undergone a course in foetal ultrasound,’ says Dr. Marcus. ‘If not, this can lead to severe medical-legal repercussions. So, this is not recommended,’ he warns.

Have a confirmed pregnancy? Learn more about our Little Life maternity services.

The information is shared on condition that readers will make their own determination, including seeking advice from a healthcare professional. E&OE. Life Healthcare Group Ltd does not accept any responsibility for any loss or damage suffered by the reader as a result of the information provided.