Ultrasound

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Are Ultrasounds Safe?

Ultrasounds can be very beneficial and can provide valuable information. They are generally considered safe by the medical community.

Ultrasounds can

Detect anomalies,
Confirm that baby is structurally sound, and
Assess overall health and placement of the placenta.

Since Ultrasounds can be overused, they continue to be a controversial topic.

Types of Ultrasounds

Early Ultrasound (“Dating Ultrasound”)

This particular US may be very beneficial for Mothers who are unsure of the LMP, Conception Date or if she has sporadic or irregular periods. This ultrasound can routinely detect a heartbeat in your baby as early as 6-7 weeks. It’s important to have as close to accurate EDD. And for these Mothers, this US can be very helpful.

Anatomy Scan (“OB Complete”)

We ask our families to get the Anatomy Scan between 18 and 20 weeks gestation.

It provides us a detailed scan of your developing baby. There are many aspects of the pregnancy that the sonographer will assess during this ultrasound to ensure that your baby is developing normally.

Do you recommend 3D or 4D Ultrasounds?

In general we don’t. But with that being said, there may be times where it may be medically necessary. If that becomes the case, then we take it case by case.

As Midwives, we prefer to minimize the babies and mothers bodies of unnecessary exposure.

Resources:

March of Dimes – Ultrasound During Pregnancy

CT Scans: Rise in medical scans during pregnancy poses radiation risk (Oct 2019)

San Diego County Midwives have either authored or reviewed and approved the content on this website.

Disclaimer of Medical Advice: All users of this website are responsible for their own medical care, treatment, and oversight. All of the content provided on the website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute the providing of medical advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.