Obstetric ultrasound in Milan
What is obstetric ultrasound?
Obstetric ultrasound represents one of the fundamental diagnostic tools in the gynecological and obstetric fields. This is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the embryo or fetus inside the uterus. This procedure allows doctors to monitor the baby’s development during pregnancy, providing valuable information about his or her health, position and overall well-being.
Contrary to what you might think, obstetric ultrasound is not limited to providing a “first look” at the unborn child; it plays a crucial role in identifying and managing early any anomalies or conditions that could influence the course of the pregnancy. It is, therefore, a pillar in the path of prenatal care and assistance, supporting future mothers and their partners in understanding and accompanying fetal growth.
Technological advancement has significantly improved the quality of ultrasound images, making it possible to observe ever finer details of the fetus. This has expanded the potential of obstetric ultrasound, making it an irreplaceable tool for prenatal diagnosis.
What is the obstetric ultrasound used for?
Obstetric ultrasound performs multiple functions during pregnancy, being not only a window through which to observe the fetus but also a fundamental evaluation and monitoring tool.
The first ultrasound, generally carried out between the 10th and 14th week of pregnancy, aims to confirm the gestational age, evaluate the number of fetuses, verify fetal viability and the adequacy of the placental implantation. This first investigation also allows us to detect some chromosomal anomalies through the measurement of nuchal translucency, a parameter indicative of the health status of the fetus.
Subsequently, the second ultrasound, known as a morphological ultrasound, is performed between the 18th and 22nd weeks. This detailed examination allows us to examine the fetal morphology in all its parts, from the brain structure to the heart, from the limbs to the internal organs, evaluating the presence of any structural anomalies or malformations. Morphological ultrasound is essential for parents’ peace of mind, as it confirms the child’s state of health and the correct development of the organs.
Finally, the third ultrasound, focused on fetal growth, is performed between the 30th and 34th week of pregnancy. This investigation evaluates the growth of the fetus, the volume of amniotic fluid, the position of the placenta and the blood flow through the umbilical artery, providing valuable information on fetal well-being and best preparing for childbirth.
Obstetric ultrasound, therefore, serves to guarantee constant and detailed monitoring of the pregnancy, from initial confirmation to the advanced stages, ensuring optimal management of maternal-fetal health.
When are other obstetric ultrasounds necessary?
In addition to the three main ultrasounds scheduled during the course of your pregnancy, situations may arise where your doctor recommends additional ultrasounds. These are generally suggested to monitor specific conditions or to respond to particular clinical needs, thus ensuring maximum safety and well-being for both the mother and the fetus.
One reason for performing additional ultrasounds includes monitoring pregnancies defined as high risk. This may be due to several factors, such as advanced maternal age, the presence of pre-existing medical conditions (for example, diabetes or hypertension), complications in previous pregnancies, or the detection of abnormalities in a routine ultrasound. In these cases, additional ultrasounds can help monitor fetal development and the progress of the pregnancy, allowing timely interventions if necessary.
Another circumstance that may require additional ultrasound is the evaluation of fetal well-being in later stages of pregnancy, especially if intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) is suspected or if there are concerns regarding the amount of amniotic fluid. These ultrasounds allow you to closely monitor the baby’s health, optimizing decisions regarding birth management.
Furthermore, ultrasound can be used in case of abnormal bleeding, to exclude complications such as placenta previa or the early onset of placental abruption, conditions that require immediate medical attention.
Finally, for twin or multiple pregnancies, ultrasounds may be more frequent than for a single pregnancy, given the need for more accurate monitoring of the development and health of each fetus.
Is it possible to detect fetal malformations?
Obstetric ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool for evaluating fetal development and identifying potential malformations or anomalies. Thanks to technological advances in the field of prenatal imaging, the ability to detect congenital anomalies during pregnancy has significantly increased.
During the morphological ultrasound, carried out between the 18th and 22nd weeks, the doctor examines in detail the structure and development of various organs and systems of the fetus. This test allows you to identify a wide range of malformations, such as those relating to the central nervous system, heart, kidneys and skeleton. Chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, can also be suggested by specific ultrasound markers, although additional genetic testing is required for a definitive diagnosis.
It is important to underline that, despite the high accuracy of ultrasound, there is the possibility of false positives or false negatives. Not all malformations are detectable prenatally, and some may develop or become evident only in the later stages of pregnancy or after birth.
Discovering a possible abnormality during an ultrasound can be a source of anxiety for prospective parents. In these cases, it is essential to rely on an expert medical team, who will be able to guide the couple through further diagnostic tests and, if necessary, discuss the available therapeutic options, including in the prenatal setting.
How is an obstetric ultrasound performed?
The obstetric ultrasound is performed using a simple, non-invasive technique that involves no risks for either the mother or the fetus. During the exam, the future mother lies on a bed, with her abdomen exposed to allow the application of a conductive gel, which facilitates the passage of sound waves.
The doctor or sonographer then moves a transducer, which is a device that emits and receives sound waves, over the skin of your belly. The sound waves, penetrating the body, are reflected by the tissues and internal organs, including those of the fetus, generating real-time images visible on a monitor screen. These images allow us to observe the internal structures of the uterus and fetus, providing valuable information on the development, health and well-being of the baby.
There are different types of obstetric ultrasound:
Transabdominal ultrasound: this is the most common technique, performed by moving the transducer over the woman’s belly.
Transvaginal ultrasound: Typically used in the early stages of pregnancy or when more detailed images are needed, this involves inserting a specially designed transducer into the vagina.
Ultrasound can also be Doppler, to evaluate blood flow in the fetus and placenta, or 3D/4D, which provides three-dimensional images of the fetus, offering a more complete view of possible structural abnormalities or simply allowing parents to see the baby’s face. their future child in more detail.
Exam duration
Duration of the examThe duration of an obstetric ultrasound can vary depending on several factors, including the type of ultrasound performed, the stage of pregnancy, and the specific purpose of the exam. In general, a standard ultrasound takes between 15 and 30 minutes. However, certain factors can increase this time.
An initial transvaginal ultrasound can be relatively quick, as the goal is often to confirm the pregnancy, assess the position of the embryo, and measure nuchal translucency. This procedure can last about 15 minutes.
A mid-pregnancy morphological ultrasound, on the other hand, is more complex and detailed. During this exam, the doctor carefully examines the structure and development of each organ and system of the fetus. Therefore, it can take longer, usually 30 to 45 minutes, sometimes up to an hour, especially if the fetus is not in an ideal position to observe all the organs.
Ultrasound scans performed in the advanced stages of pregnancy or Doppler scans for blood flow analysis can last for varying periods, generally between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on the specific monitoring needs.
Exam preparation
Preparation for an obstetric ultrasound varies depending on the type of ultrasound and the gestational age. However, most transabdominal obstetric ultrasounds require minimal preparation, aimed at ensuring the clarity of the images and the comfort of the expectant mother.
For ultrasounds performed in the first trimester of pregnancy, you may be asked to arrive for the appointment with a full bladder. This is because a full bladder lifts the uterus, allowing clearer images of the small fetus. In this case, it is recommended to drink about one or two glasses of water an hour before the exam and to avoid emptying the bladder until the end of the ultrasound.
For transabdominal ultrasounds performed in the second or third trimester, specific preparation regarding a full bladder may not be necessary, since the larger size of the fetus makes it easier to visualize. However, it is good practice to confirm any specific instructions with your doctor or the ultrasound center before the appointment.
For a transvaginal ultrasound, no special preparation is generally required. This type of ultrasound is often used in the early stages of pregnancy or when detailed images are needed, and it is advisable to wear comfortable clothing to facilitate access to the area of interest.
It is also advisable to bring any medical documents or results of previous tests that could be useful to the doctor or sonographer during the exam.
Finally, it is important to approach the exam calmly and without anxiety. Obstetric ultrasounds are routine, safe and painless procedures, aimed at monitoring the health of the fetus and supporting a calm and informed pregnancy journey.
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