A scan in the early pregnancy is usually performed in the first
trimester between 7 - 12 weeks gestation, which means from seven weeks
since the beginning of the last menstrual cycle. You may be having an
early pregnancy scan for a number of reasons including confirmation of
the EDD (estimated date of delivery), to confirm the pregnancy or just
for peace of mind. You may have an early pregnancy scan earlier than
this if you are experiencing complications in the pregnancy such as
bleeding.
Pregnancy Scan Centres in Dublin
Early pregnancy scans are important for a few different
reasons. Firstly they are done to confirm that there is a heartbeat and
that the pregnancy is viable. This ultrasound scan will also calculate
the gestational age, determine the estimated date of delivery, look for
multiples (twins, triplets etc.) and will check to exclude an ectopic
pregnancy.
Especially if it is a first pregnancy, you may feel
nervous about what to expect when you attend a clinic for an early
pregnancy scan. In most clinics you will be met by a member of the
Administration Team. If it is the first visit with a clinic you will be
asked to complete a registration form. You will then be directed to the
waiting room where you will await the sonographer.
The
sonographer will meet with you in the waiting area and take you to the
ultrasound room. Your registration details will be confirmed by the
sonographer before the ultrasound procedure begins.
There are two types of early pregnancy scans; an
abdominal scan and a transvaginal scan. An abdominal scan is performed
by placing the transducer onto the abdomen of the patient. A lubricating
gel is used to facilitate the scan. The process of abdominal scan is
non- invasive and painless.
A transvaginal ultrasound can detect
earlier pregnancies. It is often necessary for the sonographer to
perform a transvaginal scan (TVS) in very early pregnancy. A TVS
involves the insertion of a probe into the vagina. Transvaginal
ultrasound gives a much clearer and enhanced view. If the sonographer
feels it necessary to proceed to a TVS the procedure will be discussed
with you and your permission sought. Like abdominal ultrasound a TVS is
not painful but may be a little uncomfortable and possibly a little
embarrassing.
The ultrasound is available for you to view on a
screen which is often located on the wall at the end of the ultrasound
couch. This allows you to view the images produced by the transducer. At
this stage in pregnancy it may not be easy for you to make out what you
are seeing on screen but normally the sonographer will explain what you
are looking at.
The best ultrasound clinics will make your visit
as relaxing, enjoyable and as stress free as possible. An early
pregnancy scan can be a very enjoyable, reassuring event.
Pregnancy Scan Centres in Ireland
