Obstetric ultrasound

Obstetric ultrasound, also known as prenatal or pregnancy ultrasound, is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that plays a crucial role in monitoring the health and development of a growing fetus during pregnancy. It involves the use of high-frequency sound waves to create images of the developing fetus, the mother's uterus, placenta, and amniotic fluid. Obstetric ultrasound provides valuable information about the pregnancy, allowing healthcare professionals to assess fetal growth, detect any potential abnormalities, and ensure the well-being of both the mother and baby.

Here are some key aspects of obstetric ultrasound:

• Early Pregnancy Confirmation: Obstetric ultrasound is often used in the early stages of pregnancy to confirm the pregnancy's location, viability, and gestational age. This information helps in determining the due date.
• Monitoring Fetal Growth: As the pregnancy progresses, ultrasound scans are performed at different stages to monitor the baby's growth and development. The measurements of the fetus's head, abdomen, and femur are used to estimate fetal weight.
• Assessing Fetal Anatomy: Anomaly scans, typically performed around the 20th week, provide a detailed examination of the fetal anatomy. This helps identify any structural abnormalities or birth defects.
• Assessing Placental Health: The ultrasound can determine the location and health of the placenta, which is crucial for identifying conditions like placenta previa or placental insufficiency.
• Monitoring Amniotic Fluid Levels: The amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus is assessed to ensure it's at a healthy level. Too much or too little amniotic fluid can indicate potential issues.