Early Fetal Ultrasound Tests
Early obstetric ultrasound is a diagnostic tool. Sound waves take a picture of developing fetus, placenta and uterus. A transducer is passed over the abdomen in pregnancies greater than 11 weeks and inside the vagina if less than 11 weeks.
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Negatives
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Early fetal ultrasounds may show a problem that may resolve itself later in pregnancy causing needless anxiety and stress. According to The Everett Clinic, early ultrasounds done at keepsake video centers may use a higher energy level than is deemed safe for the pregnancy or may expose the woman to ultrasound waves for longer time than is safe. The Food and Drug Administration advises against the use of early ultrasound unless there is a medical reason.
Measurements
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Early ultrasound measurements include length, width and depth of the gestational sac, head circumference, nuchal skin fold, limbs and other fetal body parts including the cerebellum, heart chambers and kidneys.
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Reasons
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Early ultrasounds may be ordered because of bleeding, risk factors for birth defects, dating of pregnancy, or as a diagnostic tool.
Benefits
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Normal results of an early fetal ultrasound relieve anxiety benefiting the health of the mom. Medical problems can be determined using ultrasound and planned for so that doctors are prepared at time of delivery.
Information
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Early fetal ultrasound provides information about fetal condition, source and amount of bleeding, fetal size and age, quantity of fetuses, birth defects, the condition of placenta and amniotic fluid, according to Revolution Health.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Hamed Saber
