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Ultrasounds: Do They Have An Effect On Pregnancy?

Admin
August 14, 2022


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“Babae o Lalaki?” 

 

This is the number one question expecting couples ask when they find out they’re pregnant. Usually, this is also why they ‌want to get an ultrasound. 

 

An ultrasound can be exciting or nerve-wracking for the mother. Though it offers an early peek inside the womb, it can also make the parents anxious as they learn more about the baby’s health, whether there are complications, and so on. But how do ultrasounds really work, and do they affect the pregnancy at all? We researched on some questions you may have.

 

What is an Ultrasound?

 

An ultrasound is an imaging technique that is conducted by using high-frequency sound waves transmitted through the abdomen to evaluate the baby’s growth and monitor the pregnancy. Ultrasound can also determine any visible abnormalities in the uterus or cervix. It is very useful as it can also detect major anatomical abnormalities or birth complications.

 

 

There are two ultrasound exams: 

 

  • There’s transvaginal ultrasound in which they carefully insert a device called the transducer in the vagina to probe around the abdomen area and send out high-frequency sound waves that are recorded to create an image.

 

  • The second type is transabdominal ultrasound. This is a less invasive form of ultrasound where they move the transducer only over the abdomen. However, there may be instances in which a transabdominal ultrasound does not provide enough information, requiring a transvaginal ultrasound.

 

How do Ultrasounds Affect Pregnancy?

 

Despite almost all medical procedures having risks, prenatal ultrasounds rarely pose any risk either to the pregnant mother or the fetus. For over 30 years of using ultrasounds, healthcare providers have not linked ultrasounds with any form of risk. Especially when done by experts such as a physician or a sonographer. It is even considered safer than X-rays as it uses sound waves instead of radiation. However, it is important to note that ultrasounds are not a hundred percent accurate, and cases of misdiagnosis may happen.

 

 

 

Although ultrasound is perceived as getting a first glimpse of the baby or knowing the gender, there are other good reasons to view what’s inside the momma’s belly. Opportunity rin ito para kumustahin si baby, to learn more about their health and whether there are any complications. Prenatal ultrasounds signify welcoming a new life and the beginning of motherhood. No matter what reason, it is a fact that ultrasounds are important for both the baby and the mother’s health.

 

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