All about Ultrasound Pregnancy

The term Ultrasound Pregnancy refers to a specific type of clinical tests and practices applied during pregnancy with the help of the ultrasound. Ultrasound is a sound wave beyond the audible range of frequency greater than 2 MHz (cycles per second.). The clinical application of Ultrasound Pregnancy in obstetrics was introduced and popularized by Ian Donald in Glasgow, way back in 1958. The commonly used frequency range in obstetrics is 3-5 MHz for abdominal transducers and 5-7 MHz for vaginal transducers. This technique of medical imaging (commonly called Ultrasonography) is applied during Pregnancy for complete examination that includes survey of fetal life, fetal anatomy, fetal measurements, intrauterine environment and maternal structures.

In other words, Ultrasound in pregnancy is used

• To identify positive pregnancy or pregnancy dating,
• To examine current condition of pregnancy like multiple pregnancy, placental localization, viability of fetus,
• To detect congenital abnormalities, if any,
• To monitor high risk pregnancy,
• To monitor the normal growth and development of the fetus, and
• To diagnose critical pregnancy conditions such as abortion, ectopic pregnancy, etc.

Benefits of Ultrasound Pregnancy examinations are:

• The 3-D images produced by ultrasound have multiple advantages in understanding the current status of the fetus and the maternal body during pregnancy. The life-like image of the fetus improves antenatal parental bonding.
• Moreover, prenatal diagnosis of certain anomalies can be examined and improved.
• Ultrasound Pregnancy is the most important diagnostic tool to examine the fetal status during early pregnancy
• It is considered as an adjunct to obstetrics intervention in examining maternal health during pregnancy.
• For a pregnant woman, this application works as an alternative of clinical follow-ups.
• It also helps in intrauterine fetal therapy.
• Ultrasound (sonogram) also provides valuable information regarding infertility.

General Guidelines for the safe use of diagnostic ultrasound in pregnancy:

The use of diagnostic Ultrasound in pregnancy is widespread and biologically safe. However, the clinical application should be restricted to cases where it actually benefits the mother and the unborn. Not in cases, where the said benefits may overweight predictable risks.

Moreover, Ultrasound should not be used to identify the sex of the fetus solely for non-medical reasons or for any commercial purpose. It is also recommended that diagnostic ultrasound devices and the length of its uses should comply with the specified medical standards in all cases.