A Step-by-Step Guide to Early Pregnancy Scans
An early pregnancy scan is an exciting and crucial step in your pregnancy journey. This scan, often referred to as the first pregnancy scan or dating scan, helps confirm the presence of a viable pregnancy, determine the number of fetuses, and estimate the gestational age. But how exactly is the first pregnancy scan done, and what can you expect during this initial check-up? Let’s break down the process, what you should expect, and why it’s an important part of early pregnancy care. What is an Early Pregnancy Scan? An early pregnancy scan is typically performed between 6 and 12 weeks of pregnancy. It is a pivotal scan that helps your healthcare provider gather essential information about your pregnancy. The scan is usually done via ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of your developing baby. During this scan, the sonographer checks for the baby's heartbeat, measures the gestational sac, and examines the uterus, ovaries, and other reproductive organs. Why is ...