When Should the First Pregnancy Scan Be Done?
Ideally, the first pregnancy scan, also called the Dating or Early Pregnancy Scan, is usually performed between 6 to 9 weeks.
During this scan, your doctor checks for:
- Baby’s position (whether inside or outside the uterus)
- Baby’s heartbeat
- Baby’s gestational age
- Baby’s estimated due date
How Many Scans Are Required During Pregnancy?
Ideally, a mother with a low-risk pregnancy or a pregnancy with no complications has around 4–5 scans at various stages.
| Scan Name | Week | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Dating scan / Pregnancy confirmation scan | 6–9 weeks | Confirm pregnancy, check baby’s heartbeat, position, and gestational week |
| NT Scan | 11–14 weeks | Checks for chromosomal abnormalities |
| Anomaly Scan | 18–22 weeks | Examines baby’s organs, growth & development |
| Growth Scan | 28–40 weeks | Monitors growth, fluid, and position |
| Doppler Scan | 28–40 weeks | Evaluates blood flow in the placenta & umbilical cord |
If you have high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, twin pregnancy, or other complications in your pregnancy, your doctor may schedule additional scans based on your risk factors.
Are Ultrasound Scans Safe for the Baby?
Yes. Pregnancy ultrasound scans are absolutely safe for the mother and the baby when done by trained professionals.
Scans use sound waves, not radiation, so they don’t potentially harm you or your baby.
What’s the Difference Between 2D, 3D, and 4D Scans?
2D Scan: Flat black-and-white images used for all medical checks like heartbeat, organs, and placenta.
3D Scan: Shows your baby’s facial features and external details more clearly.
4D Scan: A 3D image in real-time motion, letting you see your baby’s yawns, smiles, or tiny kicks.
While 2D scans provide essential medical insights, 3D and 4D scans allow parents to witness their baby’s features.
Conclusion
Pregnancy ultrasound scans are crucial to monitor your baby’s health closely. Hence, it is important not to miss out on any prenatal scans.
At Jammi Scans, each and every scan is performed with precision and care to ensure both you and your baby’s well-being. Dr. Deepthi personally counsels each and every patient and helps them understand their baby’s health better.
Book your appointment today and experience expert care at every stage of pregnancy.
