| An ultrasound scan is an extremely pain free and | | | | weeks. |
| joyful experience. There may be a little discomfort | | | | You will then have a further scan at 20 weeks, just to |
| from the hand held device, known as the transducer, | | | | ensure that your baby is developing as he or she |
| pressing on your stomach, especially if your bladder is | | | | should be. If necessary you may also be asked to |
| full from the water you drink prior to the pregnancy | | | | have scan at 28 weeks and 40 weeks, if you have |
| scan. Ultrasound scans have been used for almost 30 | | | | given birth previously to a smaller baby. |
| years during pregnancy and there have never been | | | | You are not required to have an ultrasound scan, but |
| any reports of known side effects. | | | | most women do have at least 1 throughout their |
| A pregnancy scan can also be carried out by a | | | | pregnancy. The majority of women find that an |
| vaginal scan, which some women do prefer as they | | | | ultrasound scan reassuring and if your midwife advises |
| say it gives a clearer image of your baby. This type of | | | | you to have scan, but you do not want one, you will |
| scan is best carried out when you have an empty | | | | need to ask them to explain why they want you to |
| bladder. | | | | have one and what their concerns are. |
| An ultrasound scan is usually carried out between 10 | | | | If you are unsure about having an ultrasound scan and |
| to 14 weeks, which is especially important if you are | | | | would like further advice, then here at Innermost |
| being screened for a Down syndrome test. If you feel | | | | Secrets Ltd, we have extremely helpful and qualified |
| in any discomfort or are experiencing bleeding, then | | | | staff to help with all your concerns and answer your |
| you be required to have an ultrasound scan at 6 to 7 | | | | questions. |