Uses of Ultrasound in Prenatal Trimester Tests
The ultrasound scan test uses high-frequency sound waves which are used to take pictures of internal organs. In screening prenatal tests, the doctor uses ultrasound to check the normal fetal growth. The ultrasound is done at various times of pregnancy as follows: 1st trimester The first fetal ultrasound is usually done within the first three months of pregnancy. Here, doctors use ultrasound to check various things such as the embryo is developing inside the womb instead of the fallopian tube, the number of embryos, calculate the gestational age, and the baby’s due date. 2nd trimester In this trimester period (18-20 weeks of pregnancy), the ultrasound is used to check the development of fetal structures such as limbs, spine, brain, and internal organs. Doctors also check the size and location of the placenta. Parents can know the sex of the baby if they wish to know. 3rd trimester Ultrasound after 30 weeks is used to check that the baby is growing at a normal rate. Doctors