Your Guide to Pregnancy Ultrasounds

A pregnancy ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the developing fetus and reproductive organs. It plays a crucial role in monitoring fetal growth, confirming gestational age, detecting multiple pregnancies, and identifying potential complications early.

In the sections below, we’ll explore how prenatal ultrasounds work, what to expect during the procedure, and how results are interpreted.

What Is an Ultrasound in Pregnancy?

A pregnancy ultrasound, also known as a prenatal ultrasound, fetal ultrasound, baby ultrasound, or ultrasonography for pregnant women/people (among some of the common terms), is a medical imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of your baby and reproductive organs during pregnancy.

This safe and painless test helps track your baby’s growth, detect a fetal heartbeat, and check for any concerns.

Your healthcare provider may use a baby ultrasound to monitor everything from early development to your baby's position in the final trimester

What Can an Ultrasound Detect During Pregnancy?

Wondering what an ultrasound for pregnancy is commonly used for? A prenatal ultrasound can reveal a wide range of information:

• Confirm your pregnancy and detect the fetal heartbeat

• Estimate gestational age and establish your due date

• Detect multiple pregnancies

• Track fetal growth and development

• Assess your baby's anatomy, including organs and limbs

• Evaluate the placenta, amniotic fluid, and umbilical cord

• Screen for chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome or structural differences

• Check your baby's position, especially in the third trimester.

Ultrasounds can also be used to guide other tests, such as amniocentesis, and to monitor any complications.

To learn more about prenatal health, what changes to expect in your body, and beyond, visit our Online Birthing Classes.

When Do You Have Your First Prenatal Ultrasound?

So, when do you get your first ultrasound during pregnancy? The number and timing of prenatal ultrasounds will be determined by your healthcare provider, taking into account your individual needs. Each person’s pregnancy is different, but most will have at least one ultrasound exam at the midpoint of pregnancy.

The first prenatal ultrasound typically occurs in the first trimester (although this isn’t standard), usually between 7 and 12 weeks. This scan, sometimes called a dating ultrasound, confirms the pregnancy, checks the fetal heartbeat, and provides a more accurate due date.

The anatomy ultrasound scan, performed between 18 and 20 weeks, is standard and provides more detail on your baby’s development.

In some cases, an earlier ultrasound may be recommended (as early as 6 to 7 weeks) to confirm viability, especially if you have symptoms like bleeding or a history of early pregnancy loss.

How Soon Can You See a Fetus on an Ultrasound?

It’s common to wonder, “How early will an ultrasound detect pregnancy?” and “When can you see a baby on an ultrasound?” You might see a gestational sac on a transvaginal ultrasound as early as 4 to 5 weeks. By week 6 or 7, the embryo may be detectable. The embryo becomes a fetus after 8 weeks and may become more clearly visible.

When Can You See a Baby’s Sex on an Ultrasound?

Most providers can reliably determine a baby's sex through ultrasound between 18 to 20 weeks of pregnancy during the anatomy scan. However, this method is not always 100% accurate, especially if the baby isn’t positioned well.

How Many Ultrasounds Do You Have During Your Pregnancy?

While every pregnancy is unique, most pregnant people receive between one and two ultrasounds during pregnancy, depending on their health status and risk factors. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends at least one ultrasound during pregnancy, though the number and timing may vary based on your specific needs.

Common types of prenatal ultrasounds and timing:

What Type of Ultrasound Scans Are There?

There are two main types of pregnancy ultrasounds:

• Transvaginal ultrasound. The transvaginal ultrasound is used early in pregnancy for a clearer image. A small probe is inserted into the vagina.

• Abdominal ultrasound. The abdominal scan for pregnancy is the most common method used after the first trimester. A gel is applied to your belly, and a transducer moves over the skin.

In addition to standard 2D imaging, other types of ultrasound may be used depending on the purpose:

• 3D and 4D ultrasounds. These offer more detailed and lifelike images. While 3D provides still images, 4D adds real-time motion. These are typically used when more detail is needed about your baby's development and not as part of routine care.

• Doppler ultrasound. Measures the flow of blood in your baby's heart and major vessels. It's often used in later pregnancy or when there are concerns about fetal growth.

• Fetal echocardiogram. A more advanced ultrasound that takes a close look at your baby's heart structure and function. This is used if there's a suspected congenital heart condition or a family history of heart problems.

How to Prepare for Your First Ultrasound

Wondering what to do before a pregnancy ultrasound? Here are a few tips to help you prepare:

• Drink water before your early ultrasound. A full bladder may help provide clearer images, especially during an abdominal ultrasound. Your provider will tell you whether your bladder needs to be full or empty.

• Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your belly or makes it easier for you to dress and undress.

• Ask your provider whether you need to fast or take any other steps beforehand.

Remember, it's OK to feel a little nervous. Bring your questions and a support person if you need, and know that this is a chance to connect with your baby.

Are Ultrasounds Safe?

Yes, prenatal ultrasounds are considered safe when done by trained professionals for medical reasons. They use sound waves, not radiation, and have no known harmful effects on pregnant people or their babies, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

Although too many ultrasounds aren’t bad for your baby, experts advise using ultrasound scans only when necessary. There’s no need to schedule extra scans "just for fun." Your healthcare provider will let you know when it is best to schedule your ultrasounds.

Related Articles

The Full Prenatal Care Guide

How Much Does an Ultrasound Cost?

The cost of a pregnancy ultrasound varies depending on factors like location, insurance coverage, and the type of scan.

To get a clearer idea of how much an ultrasound costs with or without insurance, check with your healthcare provider or insurance company.

The Bottom Line

A pregnancy ultrasound is more than just a glimpse of your baby—it’s a vital tool for tracking health and development. While every pregnancy journey is unique, these scans offer valuable peace of mind and insights into your growing baby.

For even more support throughout your pregnancy, explore our Pregnancy Calendar and consider joining Pampers Birthing Classes.