subject: Should I have an Ultrasound scan? [print this page] An ultrasound scan is an extremely pain free and joyful experience. There may be a little discomfort from the hand held device, known as the transducer, pressing on your stomach, especially if your bladder is full from the water you drink prior to the pregnancy scan. Ultrasound scans have been used for almost 30 years during pregnancy and there have never been any reports of known side effects.
A pregnancy scan can also be carried out by a vaginal scan, which some women do prefer as they say it gives a clearer image of your baby. This type of scan is best carried out when you have an empty bladder.
An ultrasound scan is usually carried out between 10 to 14 weeks, which is especially important if you are being screened for a Down syndrome test. If you feel in any discomfort or are experiencing bleeding, then you be required to have an ultrasound scan at 6 to 7 weeks.
You will then have a further scan at 20 weeks, just to ensure that your baby is developing as he or she should be. If necessary you may also be asked to have scan at 28 weeks and 40 weeks, if you have given birth previously to a smaller baby.
You are not required to have an ultrasound scan, but most women do have at least 1 throughout their pregnancy. The majority of women find that an ultrasound scan reassuring and if your midwife advises you to have scan, but you do not want one, you will need to ask them to explain why they want you to have one and what their concerns are.
If you are unsure about having an ultrasound scan and would like further advice, then here at Innermost Secrets Ltd, we have extremely helpful and qualified staff to help with all your concerns and answer your questions.
