Ultrasound, medically speaking, is the main method used to know the status of a pregnancy. It determines the presence of babies, if there are twins or more, if there are ectopic pregnancies, placental problems, positioning of the baby and, of course, to determine sex. But … Which of all the types of ultrasounds that exist should you realize and how do they work?
Here we leave the details and dates to perform each of them:
Transvaginal
It works to get a better view of the uterus, cervix and ovaries. A transducer is inserted that is lubricated with gel before inserting it into the vagina. It is usually more comfortable than a manual gynecological exam.
When? During the first trimester of pregnancy
Transabdominal
It is the most common method during pregnancy because the monitor allows, in real time, to know the movements of the fetus. It also allows you to measure it, know if it is only one baby or more, know the location of the placenta, rule out abnormalities and measure the amniotic fluid. The images are a bit blurry and in black and white.
When? From the 16th week of gestation to know the sex
Doppler ultrasound
Color study that is done through a portable device that is placed on the mother’s abdomen, processing the sounds and creating images representing the blood flow through the vessels. It allows studying the umbilical cord, cerebral and cardiac fetal circulation, as well as uterine circulation.
When? From week 25
3D Ultrasound
It works as a support tool for normal ultrasound, allowing you to obtain a clearer and more understandable static image of your child. You will know its appearance and volume.
When? It can be done between weeks 27 and 31, since the baby has matured enough so that his features can be seen better.
Ultrasound 4D
It represents the moving image combined with the volumetric reconstruction, that is, the surface of the structures. You will appreciate features, eyes, nose and shape of the mouth.
When? From week 24
If you have questions or require more information, contact the specialists of the Ultrasound website in Mérida.
