Pregnancy Ultrasound

At CNM, we offer ultrasound services for pregnant women to check the baby’s development at various stages during the pregnancy including:

•  First trimester

Dating ultrasound - is performed within the first three months of pregnancy is used to check that the embryo is developing well, inside the womb (rather than outside), confirm the number of  embryos, calculate the gestational age and the delivery date.

This test is often used in order to evaluate problems with the first trimester of pregnancy viz.  abdominal pain, abnormal bleeding or hyperemesis.

Nuchal Translucency scan - The Nuchal Translucency scan is performed in order to identify risks of Down’s syndrome and other trisomies in a foetus, particularly in older women or those at higher risk.

The scan is carried out at 11-13 weeks pregnancy and assesses the amount of fluid behind the neck of the foetus - also known as ‘the nuchal translucency’. Foetuses at risk of Down’s syndrome tend to have a higher amount of fluid around the neck. The scan may also help confirm both the accuracy of the pregnancy dates and the foetal viability. Its high definition imaging may also detect other less common chromosomal abnormalities. This test is combined with a series of Serum biochemical markers for the most accurate risk assessment for Down’s syndrome.

•  Second trimester

Ultrasound performed between weeks 18 and 20 is used to check the development of foetal structures such as the spine, limbs, brain and internal organs. The size and location of the placenta is also  checked. The baby’s sex may be detectable for the parent’s information, should this be required.

•  Third trimester

Ultrasound performed after 30 weeks is used to check for foetal growth, quantity of Amniotic fluid, Umbilical cord blood supply, Foetal orientation and monitor foetal movements . The location of the placenta is checked to ensure a clear outward passage at the time of delivery.

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