An ultrasound may be used to confirm a miscarriage.
Instead, the screening provides a probability that the baby might have one of these genetic disorders.
A nuchal translucency ultrasound can be done without bloodwork, but the detection rate is lower at 70%.
Marcus Chung / Getty Images
What Happens During the 12-Week Ultrasound?
Your healthcare provider will likely perform atransabdominal ultrasound, which transmits waves through your abdomen.
In some cases, a transvaginal ultrasound may be performed to capture more direct or detailed images.
A scan usually takes 20 to 30 minutes to complete.
Measurements will be taken from different sections of the babys body and your uterus.
A short recording may be captured of your babys heart movement.
Your healthcare provider will then discuss the results with you.
Unlike the transabdominal ultrasound, you will be asked to empty your bladder before the test begins.
This should not be painful, but you may feel discomfort as you would during a pelvic exam.
This could occur at any point during your pregnancy.
You may also be asked to undergo a specialized ultrasound or have more regular scans performed.
In most cases, you’re able to expect an additional routineultrasound at 18 to 22 weeks.
That said, ultrasound for non-medical purposes (like keepsake videos) is discouraged.
Summary
It’s common for a healthcare provider to order a 12-week ultrasound.
The images can reveal the gestational age of the fetus and identify if there’s more than one.
Speak with your healthcare provider if you have questions about your ultrasound or your results.
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