Ultrasound scan or ultrasonography (USG) in pregnancy is a test that captures images of the mother’s reproductive parts and her developing foetus with the help of high-frequency sound waves. It helps monitor foetal development and screens early for any conditions so they can be treated right away. So, when you’re pregnant, consider visiting the best maternity hospital in Bangalore for USG.

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Why is Ultrasound Scan Important in Pregnancy?

Various ultrasound scans are performed during pregnancy at different stages of foetal growth for the following reasons:

• Early viability scan: This type of USG is performed in early pregnancy to examine the foetal cardiac activity, the mother’s reproductive structures, such as the uterus and ovaries, and the number of gestational sacs. The scan even allows dating the foetus.
• Nuchal translucency (NT) scan: It’s carried out between weeks 11 and 13 in pregnancy to detect and outroot Downs syndrome and/or any other syndromes. This test is done when the baby is 45-88 mm long.
• Anomaly scan: It’s commonly performed between weeks 18 and 20 in pregnancy to monitor the development of the limbs, heart, brain, spinal cord, kidneys and other major organs in the baby.
• Growth scan: It is usually carried out after the 30th week of pregnancy to monitor the baby’s blood flow, movements, growth, the status of the placenta, amount of amniotic food and other important things.

How to Prepare for an Ultrasound Scan?

To prepare for a USG in pregnancy, you usually must have a full bladder. Then the technician can easily get a clear image of your reproductive parts and foetus. So, you can drink 2-3 eight-ounce glasses of water 1 hour before your appointment. It’s better not to urinate before your ultrasonography to ensure that your bladder remains full for the procedure.

How is an Ultrasound Scan Performed?

During a USG in pregnancy, you must lie down on the hospital bed or examination table. The technician will apply a medical gel to your abdomen and pelvic region to help the sound waves travel properly. You won’t get any marks on your skin or clothes as the gel is water-based.

Then the technician will put a tiny wand called transducer on your abdomen, and move it to produce black and white pictures on the ultrasonography screen. The images may be measured. You may have to hold your breath or move as advised by the medical team while it captures the images.

After ensuring that all the required images have been clearly captured, the technician will wipe off the gel. After that, you can finally empty your bladder.

Is the Process Safe?

Rest assured that your USG will be safe for both you and your baby if it is performed in the best maternity hospital in Bangalore. Since ultrasound works with sound waves rather than radiation, you need not worry about any risks.

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You need at least 4 USGs in pregnancy, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of India. To receive high-quality ultrasonography every time, ensure to visit the best maternity hospital in Bangalore.