The Importance of USG during Pregnancy
The Importance of Ultrasound during Pregnancy
During pregnancy, it is mandatory to perform an ultrasound examination (ultrasonography). This is an examination technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to display a picture of the inside of the body, so that it can determine the condition and growth of the fetus in the womb.
Types of Ultrasound Examination
There are three types of ultrasound examinations that can be performed, namely 2D, 3D, and 4D ultrasound. Early pregnancy examinations (first trimester) are usually carried out using a 2D ultrasound technique, producing black and white images of the development of the fetus in the womb. If the doctor suspects a pregnancy disorder, pregnant women are advised to carry out a pregnancy examination using 3D and 4D techniques. This technique will produce more accurate and detailed results, even in the form of moving images (4D).
What Happens During an Ultrasound Examination?
Ultrasound examinations are generally performed 4 times during pregnancy. Namely once during the first trimester, once during the second trimester, and twice during the third trimester. However, this number may change, depending on the condition of the pregnancy and certain medical indications.
Benefits of Ultrasound during Pregnancy
1. First Trimester of Pregnancy (Less than 12 Weeks)
The purpose of ultrasound examination in the first trimester of pregnancy:
- Confirm pregnancy
- Checking the fetal heart rate
- Determine gestational age and estimated time of birth
- Finding out the twin pregnancy
- Check the condition of the placenta, uterus, ovaries, and cervix
- Identify abnormalities in the fetus
- Diagnosing the risk of ectopic pregnancy, a pregnancy that develops outside the uterus
2. Second and Third Trimester of Pregnancy
The purpose of ultrasound examination in the second trimester (12-24 weeks of gestation) and third trimester (24-40 weeks of gestation):
Measuring the uterine fundus (top of the uterus)
- Determine the sex of the fetus
- Monitor fetal position and development
- Confirm the presence of multiple pregnancies
Confirming intrauterine death (death of the fetus in the womb)
Monitor amniotic fluid levels and ensure whether the fetus is getting enough oxygen for growth and development
Identify the presence of genetic disorders in the fetus, such as Down syndrome
Check for congenital abnormalities or risk of birth defects, as well as structural abnormalities (such as blood flow problems) and problems with the uterus (such as tumors during pregnancy)
Identify abnormalities in the placenta, such as placenta previa (a condition in which the placenta attaches to the lower part of the uterus, blocking the birth canal) and placental abruption (a condition in which the placenta separates from the uterine wall before the fetus is delivered).
That's a fact about the importance of ultrasound in early pregnancy. Don't be afraid and hesitate to check your pregnancy at the hospital so that the development and health of the fetus and pregnant women can be monitored properly until the day of birth. Healthy greetings.