What is fetal ultrasound for pregnant women?
Fetal ultrasound is a safe, painless, and informative diagnostic method that uses ultrasound waves to obtain images of the fetus's development in the mother's womb. This examination is essential for assessing the course of pregnancy, the health of the fetus, and detecting possible abnormalities in a timely manner.
Fetal ultrasound (USG), also known as obstetric ultrasound, includes the evaluation of pelvic structures, determination of pregnancy and delivery dates, assessment of fetal development, placenta, and umbilical cord condition using high-quality ultrasound equipment, as well as real-time observation of the fetus's three-dimensional image and superficial organ evaluation using 2D, 3D, or 4D ultrasound with color Doppler.
In gynecology, 2D ultrasound is a standard diagnostic component. Its basic image is created as ultrasound waves pass through tissues of different densities, depths, blood supplies, and positions. Modern technology allows ultrasound beams to be directed in various ways, and when processed by a computer, a spatial image is produced—known as 3D ultrasound. As technology has advanced, real-time spatial images have become possible, referred to as 4D ultrasound.
Veselības centrs 4 also offers expert-level fetal ultrasound (FMF protocol), performed by specialists certified by the Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF). These are physicians and ultrasound experts (in Latvia, relatively few gynecologists, obstetricians, and ultrasound experts hold this special certification). FMF-certified ultrasound experts at “Veselības centrs 4” are Dr. Ilona Kampara and Dr. Nataļja Mošna.
How is fetal ultrasound performed?
During the procedure, a specialist applies gel to the pregnant woman’s abdominal skin and uses an ultrasound probe to obtain real-time images. In early pregnancy, transvaginal ultrasound is also possible, providing more detailed data. The examination is available during any gynecological consultation.
Standard fetal ultrasound lasts 20–40 minutes, depending on gestational week and examination purpose.
What can be determined with fetal ultrasound?
This examination can:
Determine the fetus’s age and gender,
Check heart function and organ development,
Assess fetal size and weight,
Evaluate placenta condition and amniotic fluid volume.
Fetal ultrasound helps detect:
Developmental anomalies,
Growth restrictions,
Signs of chromosomal abnormalities,
Other possible complications,
Multiple pregnancy.
When does a doctor prescribe ultrasound?
Planned examinations are usually carried out:
In the 1st trimester (weeks 11–13),
In the 2nd trimester (weeks 20–22),
In the 3rd trimester (weeks 32–34).
Additional examinations are prescribed if there are medical indications.
Contraindications
There are no known contraindications for fetal ultrasound—it is safe for both mother and baby.
Preparation for the examination
Usually, no special preparation is required. In early pregnancy, it is recommended to drink more water so that the bladder is full and images are clearer.
Maternal health and regular examinations
Regular examinations—checking fetal health with ultrasound during pregnancy—are important to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby. Timely diagnosis allows adjustments to the treatment or monitoring plan.
Results are available immediately after the examination, and the doctor explains them during the visit.
Both National Health Service (NHS) funded, insurance-covered, and paid services are available.
