Pregnancy Ultrasound

Ultrasound provides useful information about the uterus, ovaries and baby that enables appropriate antenatal care. Fetal size and heart rate are checked at all stages of pregnancy, as well as the maternal uterus, ovaries and cervix. Pregnancy ultrasound is a non-invasive painless examination to assess fetal growth, position and anatomy, and placental site, as well as the maternal uterus and ovaries. Ultrasound can detect many, but not all abnormalities. Demonstrating a fetal abnormality on ultrasound depends on many factors, including fetal age and position at the time of the ultrasound, and the size and type of abnormality.

There is very little preparation required for these exams. You should have some fluid in the bladder, and it is recommended to wear clothing that allows easy access to the entire abdominal region. Medicare provides a rebate for ultrasound during the first and second trimester, and when there is a clinical concern.

During the first trimester an ultrasound can determine the gestational age, if the patient doesn’t know her last menstrual period (LMP).  The First Trimester Screen (FTS) and Nuchal Translucency Scan is performed between 12 weeks and 14 weeks to test for any chromosomal abnormalities. This scan does not directly diagnose an abnormality, but predicts the likelihood of one being present, and can suggest further investigation.

If the patient has had symptoms such as bleeding or pain during the first trimester, an ultrasound can determine whether the pregnancy is in the correct position within the uterus, or whether there has been a miscarriage.

During the second trimester, a Morphology Scan (18-22 weeks) is used to check fetal growth, numerous important organs such as the spine, heart, brain and kidneys, placental site, and amniotic fluid volume. During the morphology scan, the sonographer will check for signs of a possible genetic problem. All Australian women are encouraged to have a morphology scan, and Medicare will provide a rebate for one or more scans during this period depending on the clinical situation and whether an obstetrician or GP refers the patient.

During the third trimester, an ultrasound can check the fetal position, placental appearance and site, how much fluid is around the baby, fetal well-being and the baby’s growth compared with previous scans and the expected date of delivery.

One of our radiologists will interpret the scan and provide your referring doctor with a comprehensive report about the findings. The results of your scan will be sent directly to your referring doctor, and it is very important you book a timely follow-up appointment to discuss your results.

Ultrasound is a safe examination which provides excellent imaging without any known risks. Our staff use ultrasound with care to ensure that patients benefit from what ultrasound offers, with minimum risk. At Apex Radiology we employ experienced, qualified sonographers accredited with the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry, and invest in the latest equipment to ensure patients receive the very best patient care.