The first pregnancy scan is a big event for any pregnant mother. It is your first time catching a glimpse of your growing baby and an important assessment of your health during pregnancy. As a first-time mom, you can be eager and nervous.Â
This blog will tell you all you need to know about your first scan including when and why to do it, what to expect, and why it matters.
Let’s discuss this in detail.
What Is a First Pregnancy Scan?
The dating, also termed as the viability scan or first pregnancy scan is an early pregnancy ultrasound. It assists you in affirming your pregnancy, detecting the heartbeat of the baby, and estimating an approximate delivery date.
Normally, it is performed between 7 to 8 weeks of pregnancy.
Why It Matters
This first scan is not only for the delight of seeing your baby. It has many essential roles:
- Ensures the location of pregnancy: to eliminate the possibility of ectopic pregnancy.
- Confirms number of babies: in case of twins or multiples.
- Measures the size of the baby: to calculate gestational age.
- Checks baby’s heartbeat: a clear indication of a healthy pregnancy.
- Diagnoses the problems early enough: like bleeding or unknown pain.Â
Such data can help your specialist in planning an ideal care plan for your pregnancy.
What Happens During the Scan?
A first pregnancy scan is normally transvaginal, particularly when you are less than 8 weeks into the pregnancy. This gives a better picture of your uterus and the growing baby. It does not hurt, and the procedure takes 10-15 minutes.
The common thing that usually occurs is:
- You will be lying down on a bed comfortably.
- Clear images are captured by inserting a probe gently.
- The doctor checks for the gestational sac and heartbeat.
- You will watch the baby on the screen–a dot blinking in a small size at this point!
When Should You Schedule It?
The first ultrasound ought to be carried out between 6 to 8 weeks. In case you do not know your last menstrual period or the menstrual cycle is not normal, your specialist may prescribe a prior scan.
Symptoms such as cramping or a history of high-risk pregnancies moreover require early assessment.
How to Get Ready?
· Drink water
A full bladder aids in getting clearer images, particularly in the case of the abdominal scan.
· Wear loose clothing
It aids in feeling comfortable during the scan.
· Bring a loved one
If possible, have someone to accompany you emotionally.
What Will You See?
The baby will have the shape of a mini bean by the end of week 6. At 8 weeks, you may see some tiny limb buds. The heartbeat of the baby can be already visible: bouncing around like a blinking light.
Do not worry if you can not observe much. Pregnancies are varied and growths cannot be the same.
What If There’s a Concern?
There are instances when the scan would reveal a smaller sac or the absence of a heartbeat. This does not always pose a problem. The doctor might tell you to come back after a week for a repeat scan.
Remain cool and have confidence in your health practitioner. The early scans are not supposed to create panic but clarity.
Consult the Right Expert
The kind of gynecologist you pick matters a lot in your pregnancy process. Whether you need efficient and personalized treatment, consider the Best gynecologist in Hyderabad–Dr. T Rajeshwari Reddy. She presents every step clearly and guides you throughout your pregnancy journey.
To get a better idea of how the first pregnancy scan works, you can visit this short video where Dr. T Rajeshwari Reddy explains it herself:
This video is particularly useful for first-time mothers who wish to understand what to expect when they get there.
Conclusion
The first pregnancy scan is an emotional and informative milestone. It is not only about visualizing a baby, it is about the confirmation of the health of your pregnancy, and the beginning of a risk-free and happy journey.
Do you want to perform your first scan or are you already pregnant? Book an appointment with Dr. T Rajeshwari Reddy, the best gynecologist in Hyderabad. She will help you through the entire process in a cautious and professional manner.
