Obstetrics

Gynaecology

Clinic Information

Pregnancy

Ultrasound

At Sound Start, we provide a range of pregnancy ultrasound services to support expectant mothers throughout their pregnancy journey. Our clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by experienced sonographers and specialists dedicated to delivering exceptional care.

From early pregnancy assessments to detailed anatomy scans, our team is here to ensure that you and your baby receive the best possible monitoring and support.

Overview of Pregnancy Ultrasound

Pregnancy ultrasounds are a crucial part of prenatal care, offering valuable insights into the health and development of your unborn baby. These non-invasive imaging techniques use sound waves to create detailed images of the foetus and the surrounding structures within the uterus. Ultrasounds can help detect potential issues early on, allowing for timely intervention and peace of mind for expecting parents.

6-12 Weeks

1.

Dating Scan

The dating scan is typically performed in the first trimester, usually between 6 and 12 weeks of pregnancy.

This ultrasound is essential for confirming the gestational age of the pregnancy, establishing a due date, and checking the number of foetuses. It can also identify early developmental issues.

During this scan, the sonographer will measure the foetus to determine its age and check for a heartbeat, providing reassurance to parents during the early stages of pregnancy.

11-14 Weeks

2.

Nuchal Translucency (NT) / Early Structural Assessment Scan + Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

The nuchal translucency scan is a specialised ultrasound performed between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. This scan measures the fluid collection at the back of the baby’s neck, known as the nuchal translucency. Combined with a blood test, the NT scan assesses the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome. A detailed structural assessment of the foetus can usually be performed at this stage. This scan also provides the opportunity to screen for a bunch of placental issues, most notably pre-eclampsia – a condition where the mother’s blood pressure starts rising towards the latter stages of pregnancy, with potential for complications to the pregnancy.

Our skilled sonographers ensure accurate measurements and provide parents with clear information about their baby’s health. A lot of expecting parents now choose to have non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for common chromosomal issues in their unborn babies.

With a very high detection rate for some of these conditions, a reassuring NIPT report can put parents’ minds at ease early in the pregnancy.

At Sound Start, we recognise the complementary value of NIPT, structural assessment of the foetus and pre-eclampsia screening; and offer these as a “bundle”. Please see attached brochure for details.

18-22 Weeks

3.

Morphology Scan

Also known as the anatomy or mid-pregnancy scan, the morphology scan is typically performed between 18 and 22 weeks. This detailed ultrasound examines the baby’s organs, limbs, and overall anatomy to check for any structural abnormalities. It also evaluates the placenta, amniotic fluid, and umbilical cord.

The morphology scan is a key milestone in pregnancy, offering parents a comprehensive view of their baby’s development. 

28-40 Weeks

4.

Growth & Wellbeing Scan

Growth scans are conducted in the third trimester to monitor the baby’s size, growth, and position. These scans can be particularly important for pregnancies with specific concerns related to the mother’s or her foetus’ wellbeing.

The sonographer will take measurements of the foetus’ body parts to assess size, in order to ensure they are growing appropriately. Our team will also evaluate the placenta’s function and the amount of amniotic fluid to ensure optimal conditions for the baby’s development.

The foetal wellbeing scan is used to assess the health and condition of the baby, particularly in pregnancies with increased risk factors. This ultrasound checks the baby’s movements, breathing patterns, and heart rate, providing a comprehensive assessment of foetal wellbeing. It can help identify any signs of distress or complications, allowing for timely intervention if necessary.

Examples of Conditions Detected by Pregnancy Ultrasound

Pregnancy ultrasounds play a vital role in detecting and managing a range of conditions that can affect both the mother and the baby.

This condition occurs when the placenta covers the cervix, which can lead to complications during delivery. Ultrasounds can identify placenta previa early, allowing for careful monitoring and planning for a safe delivery.

FGR, also known as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), occurs when the baby is smaller than expected for its gestational age. Ultrasounds can track the baby’s growth over time and help determine the best course of action to ensure the baby’s health.

Detailed anatomy scans can detect structural abnormalities, such as heart defects, cleft lip, or neural tube defects. Early detection allows for appropriate planning and care during and after pregnancy.

Ultrasounds can identify ectopic pregnancies, where the fertilised egg implants outside the uterus, allowing for early intervention and treatment.

At Sound Start, we prioritise patient-centred care, ensuring you feel supported and informed at every stage of your pregnancy.

Our experienced team of sonographers and healthcare professionals are committed to providing accurate and comprehensive ultrasound assessments in a comfortable and reassuring environment.

We understand that pregnancy can be a time of excitement and uncertainty, and we are here to address any questions or concerns you may have. Our team takes the time to explain each scan and its findings, providing you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your pregnancy.

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