The information we want to offer you is just an attempt to understand what ultrasound is and how necessary it is during pregnancy. In the end, it's up to you to decide.

In 1958, an article on ultrasound research appeared in the Lancet magazine. And we can say that with this article by Scottish researchers Donald, McVicar and Brown, the era of ultrasound diagnostics began in obstetrics.

Currently, there is no research method in obstetrics that could be comparable in information content to ultrasound echography (US). From an additional method, ultrasound examination becomes one of the main ones in obstetric practice. Doctors consider the main advantages of ultrasound (echography) to be highly informative, painless and safe.

But is ultrasound so safe that it is sometimes required to be done up to 7-10 times during pregnancy? This question is not random. It is taken from life. Very often, mothers are asked questions related to the topic of ultrasound diagnostics and share their feelings, observations and assumptions.

These are some of the questions we get asked. How safe is ultrasound during pregnancy? How many times during pregnancy can it be done? What effect does this test have on fetal tissue formation if administered early in pregnancy? How reliable are the results of ultrasound examination and is it possible to do without ultrasound at all? Is it possible to reduce the number of these studies to a minimum, and to what extent?

Scientists are not clear in their answers to these questions. The fact is that not a single scientist can say 100% that ultrasound is useful and safe during pregnancy in “frequent” dosages. Although many obstetricians love it and often refer to this research. Most mothers, during their entire pregnancy, do ultrasound examinations not 2-3 times, but much more. Sometimes without even suspecting that ultrasound does have a certain effect on the fetus. Dr. Frederick Frigoletto, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Harvard Medical School and chairman of the National Health Conference, said the following about ultrasound: “We could not find evidence to recommend that all pregnant women undergo ultrasound screening. Let the risk be purely theoretical. But if there is no benefit from the research, even the theoretical risk cannot be justified.”

Theoretically and practically, during ultrasound examination, the body is exposed to a high-frequency sound wave, usually 3.5-5 MHz. This wave is in no way connected with radiation, but is an ordinary sound, but its frequency spectrum lies outside the audible region, such as the cry of a bat or a dolphin. By the way, the dolphin is taken as a symbol of the ultrasound trend in medicine. In the aquatic environment, the ultrasonic pulses of a dolphin help it, as in ultrasound diagnostics, to determine the size, position and speed of an object. So, the sent ultrasound pulse is reflected from different structures of the body and is perceived by the receiving sensor, the whole process resembles an echo in the mountains, which is why it is called echolocation. Further transformations of the signal using a computer make it possible to obtain a picture on the monitor screen, from which one or another conclusion is made.

So the conclusions. You need to approach everything wisely, know why and for what indications this or that study will be carried out. You should also be reasonable about the frequency of studies performed, do not try to get an ultrasound simply to see how the child is developing, remember that there are enough other methods of monitoring the intrauterine state.

There are many methods for identifying the disease at an early stage, especially severe and dangerous ones. One of them is . It involves obtaining a two-dimensional, and with modern modern equipment, a three-dimensional image of the organ under study due to the reflection of ultrasonic vibrations from internal structures. The method is practically harmless, therefore it is used quite often in medicine.

The frequency of this test depends on the person’s health status. If there are no chronic diseases and no complaints about the functioning of any internal organs, then a full medical examination is enough to undergo once a year. In this case, a comprehensive ultrasound examination involves examination of the abdominal organs, pelvis, kidneys, thyroid gland, for women - the mammary glands, for men over 50 - the prostate gland. If any abnormalities or neoplasms are detected, additional research will be ordered. It is no secret that any disease, even the most dangerous one, detected at a fairly early stage, can be cured without even resorting to surgery, using only appropriate medications.

If you wish and for your own peace of mind, you can go throughUltrasound diagnostics semiannually. But in this case, it is better to spend money on examining all internal organs rather than checking just one. The fact is that sometimes when a disease of one organ is suspected, in fact the pathology will be in another, nearby. When checking the organs located in the pelvis, you may not pay attention to a small tumor in the kidney.

In the presence of any chronic diseases, the frequency of ultrasound depends on the course of the disease. In any case, the intervals between examinations should not exceed six months. Sometimes the course of the disease requires the procedure to be performed monthly or even weekly. Considering what problems can be avoided by performing an ultrasound on time, it is hardly worth paying attention to the imaginary harm from the procedure.

Fetal examination for pregnant women is usually carried out three times during the entire period. Although with some pathologies, such as aging of the placenta, the need for ultrasound increases manifold. Among experienced gynecologists there is no clear opinion on the number of permissible procedures; in any case, this issue is resolved individually for each woman. If the examination allows you to save the baby’s life, it is hardly appropriate to talk about its harm.

The most common method for identifying diseases of internal organs and joints, confirming the fact of pregnancy and determining the state of fetal development is ultrasound diagnostics. Many patients ask questions: how often can an ultrasound be done, is it dangerous to health, how to prepare for the procedure, and many others.

Description of the procedure

During such diagnostics, ultra-frequency waves penetrate the human body, and since each tissue of the body has its own acoustic resistance, they are absorbed or reflected. As a result, the image on the ultrasound machine display shows different environments darker or lighter. To study a particular organ, its own wave parameters are used. For example, to examine the thyroid gland, a frequency of 7.5 MHz is used, and the diagnosis of abdominal organs requires 2.5-3.5 MHz. Everything is based on the properties of tissues located in a certain location.

During the ultrasound procedure, slight heating of the tissues occurs, but this occurs in such a short period of time that it does not affect the condition of the body in any way and is not felt at all by the patient. Ultrasound examination is performed using a special scanner. The working part of the device consists of a source and receiver of high-frequency waves. The source emits them, then reflection or absorption occurs from tissues and organs. The receiver catches the waves and transmits them to a computer, where they are interpreted into a picture of a tissue “cut” in real time.

With the help of modern technologies, both two-dimensional and three-dimensional images can be obtained in appropriate institutions. Cardio Plus Medical Center has the most modern equipment, which allows for error-free diagnosis. In addition, the clinic can provide consultation with specialists.

Before starting the ultrasound, the patient is asked to partially undress and then lie down on the couch. During the ultrasound examination, the patient lies down, periodically changing body position at the request of the doctor. Diagnostics is carried out with a portable sensor, which the specialist presses firmly but lightly to the skin. Gynecological ultrasounds use a transvaginal probe, which is inserted into the vagina. Examinations of organs that are performed through the rectum require the use of a transanal receiver.

To improve the movement of the sensor over the skin and the transmission of sound waves, the body and the receiver itself are lubricated with a special hypoallergenic water-based gel. Ultrasound is completely painless, only slight discomfort may be caused by the pressure of the device and the feeling of cold from the gel.

Is it harmful to do an ultrasound?

Ultrasound diagnostics has long been recognized as a safe procedure. Indeed, there has not yet been any evidence that any of the patients were harmed by the ultrasound. However, it would be rash to unconditionally assert that high-frequency waves are one hundred percent safe. Studies have shown the danger of very high intensity ultrasound for the tissues of the human body.

Experiments prove that the human body is exposed to two factors of ultrasound: mechanical (when a certain frequency limit of the emitted waves is exceeded) and thermal. Both factors are unsafe for the body if their values ​​exceed permissible standards. Therefore, the safety of your ultrasound can only be ensured if certain conditions are met. Firstly, the medical institution uses certified equipment for ultrasound diagnostics. Secondly, if the doctor who performs the ultrasound follows all the safety rules prescribed in the instructions for using the scanner.

How often can the procedure be done?

Considering that the price of ultrasound diagnostics is low, it can be performed as often as desired. But does this make any practical sense? After all, the number of procedures does not affect the accuracy of the diagnosis. This is why the frequency of ultrasound is determined solely by the attending physician, who always prescribes the optimal number of sessions.

As already mentioned, if all the rules are followed, the procedure is safe for the body. Even if you conduct several sessions in a short period of time, nothing bad will happen. That is why ultrasound, unlike X-rays and CT scans, has no contraindications. It is well tolerated even by small children and pregnant women.

To confirm the fact that ultrasound is harmless, it is worth paying attention to what the doctors are wearing. Radiologists wear lead aprons and other protective equipment; ultrasound doctors do not wear protective uniforms, although they are exposed to ultrasound throughout the entire working day. Healthy people are recommended to undergo an ultrasound scan at least once a year. Pregnant women perform the procedure three times during their pregnancy.

How an ultrasound scan is performed during pregnancy, what you need to remember when preparing for routine diagnostics, what questions to ask the doctor based on the examination results - read our article 10 important rules for conducting an ultrasound scan during pregnancy.

Ultrasound during pregnancy: important rules

Keep an eye on deadlines

First of all, carefully monitor your gestational age and go for an ultrasound examination exactly when it was prescribed by the doctor leading your pregnancy. Because as a result of each of the three planned ultrasounds, the doctor excludes certain pathologies of the child’s development.

Choose a clinic for ultrasound

Spare no expense and get an ultrasound done in a good clinic using a modern machine. To do this, take the time to find out reviews about the clinic, equipment and doctors who perform ultrasounds during pregnancy.

Think over timing issues for ultrasound during pregnancy

First of all, coordinate the time with your husband if he also wants to be present during the procedure. Plan your time so that you get to the clinic 10-15 minutes before the appointed time, because most likely you will have to fill out a card or some other documents.

Think through the organizational issues of ultrasound during pregnancy

Check with the clinic for directions, as well as what things and documents you need to take with you. Prepare your money. Dress comfortably so that you can quickly expose your tummy. Just in case, take paper tissues with you to wipe off the gel. And also a disposable diaper if you are going for an ultrasound not to a private clinic, but to a regular local clinic.

Don't forget about hygiene before going for an ultrasound

A shower, clean underwear and socks, as well as neat clothes are natural hygiene standards for visiting any doctor. Ultrasound during pregnancy is no exception.

Don't forget your pregnant woman's exchange card

Also, take copies of previous ultrasounds with you, if you had any. The doctor will likely want to review these documents, compare ultrasound results during pregnancy, and make recommendations if necessary.

Prepare answers to questions

During your pregnancy ultrasound, your doctor will likely ask you several questions. Be ready to call

• first day of last menstruation,
• duration of menstruation,
• what kind of births are there?
• how previous pregnancies ended,
• how much the child/children weighed at birth,
• Are there any congenital pathologies in the family, for example, heart defects?

Prepare not to panic

Be calm and take care of yourself and your child under any circumstances. During an ultrasound, they can (but very rarely!) reveal pathologies in the development of a child. Your task is not to panic and double-check everything carefully. How to double check?

Yes, it’s very simple: undergo an ultrasound again from another specialist, a more specialized one, specializing specifically in your problems. As a rule, in cases of suspicion of any pathology, the expectant mother is sent for further examination either to the PAH or to OKHMATDIT.

According to the law, a private clinic cannot refute a serious diagnosis. It is also necessary to find out what tests and when to take to refute the diagnosis. These questions can be answered either by your local doctor or by the person who performed the ultrasound examination.

Find out more research

Find out what additional tests the clinic offers during your time period. In the early and middle stages of pregnancy, ultrasound is recommended to be done synchronously with genetic blood screenings - at 14-16 weeks and at 18-20 weeks - the so-called PRISCA of the first and second trimesters.

Comparison of data obtained from ultrasound and blood biochemistry data makes it possible to exclude major genetic pathologies with almost one hundred percent probability.

In the third trimester, along with ultrasound, Doppler measurements are also performed - the speed of blood flow in the vessels of the fetus and mother is determined, and the functionality of the umbilical cord is monitored. And during cardiotocography, the baby’s heart rate is recorded.

Ultrasound during pregnancy: a good doctor will tell the truth

Victoria Maksimova, obstetrician-gynecologist, deputy chief physician for outpatient work at the ISIDA clinic, comments:

“The obstetrician-gynecologist has a double responsibility: both for the life of the mother and for the life of the child. This is the specificity of our profession.
Such a doctor must be a “professional squared away.” And along with this, he is also a good psychologist - so that the patient trusts him. This means being able to listen, be compassionate, and be merciful.
Of course, midwifery is more about positive emotions. However, situations are different.
I believe that a doctor should always tell the truth. But this should be done gently, tactfully, perhaps through relatives. In each specific case, an individual approach is important, because all people are different.
As a doctor with extensive experience, I always know how to behave with a patient - as soon as she crosses the threshold. I try to convey information in an accessible way, because it is very important that my interlocutor understands everything correctly. This result can be achieved if a woman sees that the doctor is not indifferent to her problem.”

N Is it really possible to do an ultrasound? More than once it occurred to a person holding a referral for the procedure in his hands.

Ultrasounds are performed on almost everyone, from birth to advanced age. You just need to remember - ultrasound is a medical procedure, it should only be done as prescribed by a doctor.

What is ultrasound, is it necessary to do it, is it dangerous to health:

The ultrasound transmitter emits ultrasonic waves at 3.5 MHz - a high frequency. It is believed that such waves are not perceived at all by the human ear.

During the procedure, the waves hit the examination object, are reflected from the object and then enter the receiver (receiving device).

Appears as images on the monitor screen.

If the expectant mother is examined, the baby, its skeletal system, and internal organs are visible.

The following examination methods are performed using ultrasound:

• Echography.
• Dopplecardiography.

The examination is carried out with two directed beams of waves:

• Absent-minded.
• Directed.

The doctor himself decides which waves to conduct the examination.

To determine the baby's heartbeat, a more intensified, directed beam of waves is used. The rule is not to direct its waves at the baby’s head. The duration is reduced to a couple of minutes.

How to determine the effect of ultrasound on your body, whether it is necessary:

• It depends on the sensitivity of the tissue of the subject.
• Time and intensity of impact on the body.

Ultrasound has harmful effects at exposure intensity greater than 10 W/cm.

1. In this case, the tissues of the subject are heated.
2. The formation of liquid and gas bubbles is added.

It is believed that waves with a force of 0.05 to 0.25 W/cm do not heat tissues, but whether the formation of gas and liquid bubbles occurs is unknown.

When studying this phenomenon, it was found that the doctors performing the procedure experienced tingling sensations,

Many experts consider the ultrasound procedure to be harmless. It can be used many times without harming your health.

There are more and more contrary opinions. It has been noticed that during an ultrasound examination, the fetus in the womb behaves very violently during the procedure.

Intense movements are noted. It was previously stated that humans cannot perceive the sound of an ultrasound machine’s frequency.

Doctors of America. Japan began to restrict this procedure due to an unrecognized risk to the baby.

Let it be theoretical, but if doubts arose, they stopped prescribing ultrasound without the need for examination.

Theories have been put forward about the impact of ultrasound on chromosomes and their adverse effects.

Mutations of the embryo may occur, growth retardation, changes obtained at the microscopic level - established in experimental animals.

Doctors were alarmed by the fact that mothers who underwent an ultrasound procedure several times had fewer babies than mothers who had it done only once at 18 weeks.

Scientists closely monitored the development of such children, but absolutely no deviations in their development were identified.

Modern ultrasound machines reduce the time of examination. The images are of higher quality.

Why do you need to do an ultrasound:

Let's look at the example of a pregnant woman, why she needs an ultrasound examination.

First:

1. To determine the location of the fetus (uterus or abdominal cavity).
2. The very fact of pregnancy.
3. Gestational age and number of embryos.
4. The correctness of its development.
5. Anomalies in development or death.
6. Images of the embryo are visible at 7-8 weeks.
7. Image of the fertilized egg at 5 – 6 weeks.
8. At 10 weeks it is possible to register fetal movement.
9. The sex of the fetus is determined from 24 weeks to 34.

Second:

To study the placenta: its position, size, condition. This is very important for determining the exchange of blood between the fetus and the mother.

Third:

Mandatory measurement of the pelvis, assessment of the condition of the female birth canal. This eliminates obstacles to natural childbirth due to reason or deformation of the pelvis.

Fourth:

Timely detection of fetal malformations: cardiovascular, nervous system in the early stages of female pregnancy. This is relevant up to 20 weeks, the possibility of termination of pregnancy is taken into account.

Thanks to ultrasound, it is possible to exclude the birth of children with severe defects.

How necessary is ultrasound, why is ultrasound needed:

It is better not to do an ultrasound unless absolutely necessary; for example, the baby’s heartbeat can be checked with a fetoscope. To determine its position and presentation, you just need the competent hands of an obstetrician.

But, in some cases, an ultrasound examination is simply necessary:

1. If the family has children born with severe defects and developmental anomalies.
2. Predisposition to inherited diseases.
3. A pregnant woman was exposed to radiation or toxic chemicals.
4. Severe viral diseases and infections suffered by the mother. Chronic maternal disease: phenylketonuria.
5. The doctor suspects a female placenta previa or suspects a premature abruption of the female placenta.
6. Suspicion of an ectopic pregnancy, possible non-developing pregnancy or delay in fetal development.

Here we are already talking about the health of mother and child, and examination is simply necessary. It is difficult to find an alternative to ultrasound for this.

The answer suggests itself: is it necessary to do an ultrasound? In some cases, it is simply necessary, but without need it is not at all necessary.

The choice is up to you and your doctor. Good luck.

Watch the video on why to do an ultrasound: