First Trimester Ultrasound in Tarneit: A Complete Guide for Expectant Parents

The first trimester of your pregnancy will involve an obstetrician who will closely monitor your pregnancy progression, any indication of a possible miscarriage, and risk of potential future complications. With a first-trimester ultrasound, both the patient and the obstetrician are provided valuable information on the condition of the pregnancy. Over the years, ultrasound quality and images have significantly improved, and the modern scan provides a lot more detail to aid in enhanced quality of predictions and diagnosis.

What are the Things to Consider During the First Trimester

Standard monitoring practices followed during the first trimester comprise physical examinations, ultrasound imaging, genetic studies, and blood tests. You will also be checked for other risks such as birth defects, condition of the amniotic fluid, potential for miscarriage, problems with embedding the placenta, possible ectopic pregnancy, and early pregnancy loss.

This monitoring helps the physician in addressing potential issues at an early stage, as all of the aforementioned risks can greatly increase the probability of a stillbirth. Ultrasound scans offer a reliable method for evaluating the risk factors at birth and provide patients with an opportunity for additional care in critical situations.

How is a First Trimester Scan Performed

There are two ways of administering a pregnancy ultrasound – it can be done either transabdominal (over the belly) or transvaginally (inside the vagina). The latter procedure may be recommended if you are getting the scan early on in the pregnancy, as it produces a more accurate image.

In a transvaginal ultrasound, you will have to undress from the waist down and lie down on the examination table with your feet put up on stirrups – this is similar to what you would do for a pelvic exam. The transducer is covered with a condom-like protective sheath and lubricated suitably before being placed inside the vagina.

What are the Benefits of a First Trimester Ultrasound

Around the eighth week of your pregnancy, all the major organ systems in the foetus become fully developed though the foetus itself does not exceed more than 1.5 inches in length. When you get an ultrasound done after 13 weeks, it provides an evaluation of any chromosomal abnormality or birth defects. You will most likely have a transvaginal ultrasound during the first-trimester scan to obtain the best high-resolution images. In case something concerning shows up on the scan, your doctor may advise additional ultrasounds.

An early ultrasound scan is beneficial as it helps in identifying various conditions and disorders during the pregnancy, such as:

• Whether the pregnancy is normal or an ectopic one, as the latter carries significant fatality risks.
• Cause of any uterine bleeding.
• Any issues with the placenta implant?
• Presence of any genetic disorders or birth defects that can result in stillbirth.

A typical ultrasound produces a two-dimensional cross-sectional image of the baby. While technological advancements now allow 3D and 4D ultrasound scan images to be produced akin to taking a photograph of the developing foetus, these aren’t always necessary. However, such high-definition scans may be preferred if you suspect a birth defect, such as a cleft palate, that is not easily detectable on a 2D image.

Get Your First Pregnancy Ultrasound at Carewell

Carewell Diagnostix in Tarneit is one of the leading diagnostic service providers with several years of experience in serving the local community. We understand the importance of an accurate first-trimester ultrasound for expecting parents and are well-equipped to help you out in every way possible. Contact us today to book your ultrasound appointment, or simply talk to an expert to know more about our services.