EARLY

EARLY PREGNANCY

Ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy is the most important tool to determine the health of the pregnancy.

The aims of the first trimester ultrasound are:

To identify the location of the pregnancy - inside the uterus or outside of the uterus (ectopic pregnancy)

To determine whether a pregnancy is viable or non-viable

To date the pregnancy and provide the Estimated Due Date

To determine the number of embryos (singleton, twins, triplets)

To perform an early anatomy study

To measure the nuchal translucency thickness

Some other reasons you or your doctor might want to have an ultrasound in early pregnancy include concerns for:

miscarriage

bleeding

tubal ectopic pregnancy

non-tubal ectopic pregnancy

pregnancies of unknown location (PULs)

Usually, early pregnancy events such as miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy result in patients experiencing some symptoms such as vaginal bleeding or pain. Evaluation in early pregnancy when abnormal symptoms or signs are experienced is essential. Accurate ultrasound can ensure timely treatment if necessary.

The first trimester scan is usually performed through your abdomen but sometimes a transvaginal scan is required. Transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasounds are both safe.