First Trimester
First Trimester
6 - 12 weeks
6 - 12 weeks
*Full bladder required*
8-10 weeks gestation is recommended for your first obstetrical ultrasound unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
A full bladder is required for proper visualization. *Please drink 3-4 glasses of water 1 hour before your exam.*
A transvaginal ultrasound is often required to properly document the early stages of pregnancy (especially if you are less than 8 weeks gestation). Follow this link for additional information regarding transvaginal ultrasounds.
This ultrasound may be used to asses:
- Fetal viability
- Gestational age / Due date
Second Trimester
Second Trimester
13 - 27 weeks
13 - 27 weeks
*Full bladder required*
For your second trimester anatomical ultrasound, 20-22 weeks gestation is recommended.
A full bladder is required for proper visualization. *Please drink 3-4 glasses of water 1 hour prior to your exam.*
Once the initial images have been obtained you may typically empty your bladder and resume the test.
This ultrasound may be used to:
- Asses fetal anatomy
- Monitor fetal growth
- Confirm fetal well-being
- Detect abnormalities
- Asses maternal pelvis
Third Trimester
Third Trimester
28+ weeks
28+ weeks
Full bladder is recommended.
Your doctor may choose to send you for a follow up ultrasound prior to delivery.
A full bladder is recommended if possible. *Please drink 2-3 glasses of water 30-45 minutes prior to your exam.*
Once the initial images have been obtained you may empty your bladder and resume the test.
This ultrasound may be used to asses:
- Biophysical profile (health and well being of the fetus)
- Fetal position
- Biometry (monitoring the fetal growth)
- Maternal placenta