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How Many Ultrasounds Should You Have During Pregnancy?

4 mins read

We’ve all probably seen the fuzzy black and white photos that pregnant couples get when they’re expecting. Those keepsake photos are called sonograms. They are created when a pregnant mother gets an ultrasound from her doctor.

 

Ultrasounds are commonly used to help monitor the health of your fetus during pregnancy and detect any abnormalities. But what is an ultrasound exactly? And how many ultrasounds do you need throughout the course of your pregnancy? Do you get one at every pregnancy check-up or only at certain follow-up visits?

 

Keep reading to learn more about ultrasounds and how many ultrasounds you should have during pregnancy.

 

What is an ultrasound?

What is an ultrasound

An ultrasound is a type of body scan that uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the body’s internal organs and of a developing baby. Ultrasounds are used during pregnancies to capture an image of the fetus inside the mother’s womb. They are a routine part of prenatal care.

 

Since the human eye cannot see inside the womb, ultrasounds are essential to monitoring the health and development of the fetus. They can help assign your due date, determine your baby’s gestational age, identify any health problems or birth defects, monitor fetal health and development, and identify the sex of the baby.

 

You may have heard the terms “ultrasound” and “sonogram” used interchangeably before. What is the difference? Ultrasound refers to the procedure where the doctor performs the body scan, whereas sonogram refers to the printed picture that results from the procedure.

 

Are ultrasounds safe for pregnant women?

Ultrasounds are commonly used during pregnancies. They have been determined to be very safe for pregnant women and the fetus.

 

Ultrasounds are very safe to have because they utilize sound waves to generate the sonogram image. They do not use radiation or X-rays. Ultrasounds are so safe that they do not require any special preparation or personal protective equipment before use.

 

How many ultrasounds are necessary during pregnancy?

How many ultrasounds are necessary during pregnancy

While ultrasounds are completely safe for the mother and fetus, there is no medical reason to have more ultrasounds than necessary.

 

In general practice, it is expected that pregnant women receive a minimum of two standard ultrasounds throughout their pregnancy.

 

The first ultrasound is typically given in the first trimester to confirm the baby’s heartbeat, verify that the pregnancy is in the uterus and is not an ectopic pregnancy, and to predict the baby’s due date. A doctor may use a pregnancy ultrasound in combination with a pregnancy test to confirm a viable pregnancy.

 

The second pregnancy ultrasound is typically given in the second trimester, between 18 and 22 weeks, to monitor the fetus’ growth, assess the position of the umbilical cord and the placenta, do an anatomy scan, count the baby’s fingers and toes, and determine the sex of the baby.

 

If you have medical concerns or you have a high-risk pregnancy that requires more frequent monitoring, then you can expect to have additional ultrasounds during your pregnancy.

 

Therefore, different women may receive different numbers of ultrasounds throughout their pregnancy journey. There is no exact number that is right for everyone’s medical needs.

 

What are the types of ultrasound?

There are several types of ultrasounds that are used for different purposes and at different times during pregnancy. All of these types of ultrasound scans are safe for pregnant women and are used to monitor your baby’s growth and health.

 

A transvaginal ultrasound is an ultrasound that is performed through the vagina. A small wand, or transducer, is placed in the vagina up to the cervix and uses ultrasound technology to create an image of the inside of the uterus. A transvaginal ultrasound is often used for the first early ultrasound.

 

A pregnancy ultrasound done later in the second trimester is often performed with an exterior transducer placed on the outside of the pregnant woman’s belly. This is the ultrasound that most of us probably think of when we think of pregnancy ultrasounds.

 

A nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound is an optional ultrasound given around 10-13 weeks. This optional ultrasound can be used to identify congenital disabilities and down syndrome. A mother may choose to have this ultrasound to alleviate any concerns she may have about the baby’s health. A doctor may recommend this ultrasound if there is a family history of congenital disabilities.

 

Who performs an ultrasound during pregnancy?

Obstetricians or ob/GYNs typically perform ultrasounds for pregnant women. Some obstetrics providers may also have an ultrasound technician on staff to assist with the procedure. All procedures should be performed by a trained medical doctor.

 

Visit your Ob/GYN for an ultrasound today

Are you pregnant or planning to be pregnant? Then you are in need of obstetrics services!

 

At Great City Medical, our board-certified ob/GYN Dr. Yelena Tsyba provides top-quality ultrasound exams and ob/GYN services to pregnant women in NYC. If you think you might be pregnant, Dr. Tsyba can provide your first-trimester ultrasound so you can monitor your baby’s development during early pregnancy and beyond. And get images of your baby to keep as a beautiful keepsake!

 

Call our offices to make your appointment for an NYC ultrasound today!

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Testimonials

I had a great experience at Great City Medical. My appointment was scheduled right away, the staff is very nice and professional, communication was great and prompt. Highly recommend!
Stephany B.
Stephany B.
00:35 27 Sep 23
Great and fast service.. very friendly doctors and assistants..
Mohammed Y.
Mohammed Y.
19:40 26 Sep 23
Great place and Friendly staff .Dr. Tsyba is awesome
Elizabeth M.
Elizabeth M.
16:54 21 Sep 23
Muy buenas atenciones 👍🏽
Mateo Rosario H.
Mateo Rosario H.
16:22 21 Sep 23
The doctor and staff were truly amazing. They are friendly, caring and very professional. I was seen immediately and felt very comfortable in the calmenvironment.
Daysi P.
Daysi P.
00:31 15 Sep 23
helpful,quick response and communication
Cherry P.
Cherry P.
01:26 14 Sep 23
It was all smooth. They shared the information with me prior to the medical immigration test. I highly recommend great city. 5 stars for e-communication and responsiveness!
Mahy H.
Mahy H.
17:34 13 Sep 23
Th everyone is amazing! From the reception all the way to the doctors
Winnie G.
Winnie G.
16:54 06 Sep 23
The wait to be seen is short and everybody worked well together to give each patient a pleasant experience.
Sharon P.
Sharon P.
22:46 05 Sep 23
The staff was knowledgeable of my situation and took care of me properly.
Tyrone M.
Tyrone M.
18:26 30 Aug 23
Good service!
Leandro A.
Leandro A.
16:38 30 Aug 23
Dr yelena is great
Dayana R
Dayana R
16:20 30 Aug 23
Great service. The intake with the nurse was pleasant and fun. The time with the doctor was very comfortable, she listened very attentivet all my concerns, she was very gentle and professional.They have late afternoon appointments wich is a plus.The final step was the scheduling of the next appointment wich was fast!My mom was right to recommend her and I recommend them as well.
Juana G.
Juana G.
23:19 29 Aug 23
Muy profesional
Jose Joaquin Campos J.
Jose Joaquin Campos J.
18:25 22 Aug 23
Fun visit, everyone was super sweet and beautiful! From the front desk allllll the way up until I had my blood drawn at the end! Would recommend to any woman/person
Jasmine K.
Jasmine K.
00:01 15 Aug 23
From the front desk to the medical assistant, to the lab, and down to the doctor and whoever you passed by, it was excellent customer service. It was topnotch. I think the entire staff took extra customer service classes.
ibro D.
ibro D.
16:45 09 Aug 23
I finally have a great medical Dr.. She ordered blood work an gave me medical referrals.I love my GYN DR. at this office tooThe office is very nice n clean the front desk receptionists are all very nice a pleasant
Kyra W.
Kyra W.
17:53 07 Aug 23
I think Dr. Akselrud’s bedside manner is exceptional. It mimics the hospitality depicted in movie, s yet rarely experienced in actual life. As such, I appreciate his expertise and welcome his opinion regarding my health and well-being.I consider him to be a Grade A physician without question!
latia H.
latia H.
23:28 03 Aug 23
Great experience!
Yami
Yami
18:00 28 Jul 23
Fast service , great assistance
Ayanna G.
Ayanna G.
16:37 28 Jul 23
I go there for my immigration exam! Everything was so perfect! Everyone was so nice with me! This is the perfect place to go for anything you want. They will help you!
Jonas C.
Jonas C.
18:05 27 Jul 23
Excelente personal very friendly ,they made easy your visit to the Dr. RECOMIENDADISIMO
Ingrid C.
Ingrid C.
19:05 26 Jul 23
It was a great experience for me as the staff was incredibly helpful and friendly, also there was almost no waiting time. It was efficient, in a great atmosphere.
Ishak-Kristof F.
Ishak-Kristof F.
17:13 21 Jul 23
The people that was working with me was very nice
tyrese C.
tyrese C.
16:30 21 Jul 23
Great staff, great experience the lady’s were very professional
1 Hungry Y.
1 Hungry Y.
19:01 20 Jul 23
Great guys. Anthony is awesome.
Alberto A.
Alberto A.
18:23 20 Jul 23
The place is clean the staff and the Doctor made me feel comfortable and welcome
vickie F.
vickie F.
18:48 19 Jul 23
The doctor I saw was lovely and personable. I’d only suggest they improve the overall appearance of the practice. The floors were a bit dirty, the bathroom too.
Sophie S
Sophie S
15:45 14 Jul 23
Excelente atención
J&L LOS R.
J&L LOS R.
16:04 11 Jul 23
DR.GRANA IS THE BEST
A Luis S.
A Luis S.
17:58 10 Jul 23
I love This Medical Office!@
Ethel C.
Ethel C.
23:11 05 Jul 23
Muy buen servicio, rapido y muy amables
Luis M Perez S.
Luis M Perez S.
04:04 02 Jul 23
Service was kind, friendly and helpful.
Phyllis T.
Phyllis T.
20:22 22 Jun 23
I have been to three states and I have never come across a medical facility where all the staff look so happy, they are all so friendly, patient orientated, gentle in care and knowledgeable with patient informing! I am so happy I found them and would recommend to everyone!
Kyle V.
Kyle V.
20:05 15 Jun 23
Service was good. Very welcoming.
Fatima O.
Fatima O.
14:55 15 Jun 23
Fue muy buen servicio todo el personal muy amable
Silvia G.
Silvia G.
22:37 14 Jun 23
Súper confortable and the stuff very sweet and professional!!
Elizabeth C.
Elizabeth C.
15:08 14 Jun 23
Very nice always very professional
Madeline C.
Madeline C.
16:38 13 Jun 23
The front dest, nurses and the doctor are very nice and professional.I didn’t wait and entered my appointment on time and everything was really quick.Overall, great experience. I highly recommend 🙂
Tzlil B.
Tzlil B.
17:27 06 Jun 23
So easy and effective getting my medical done with this team… a bit shoutout especially to Patricia who was so communicative and lovely throughout the process. And all the doctors were very comforting with my vaccines and bloods as I’m not the best with needles lol!! Can’t recommend more.
Flynn S.
Flynn S.
16:43 05 Jun 23
My original appointment was with Dr. Tysba however I was seen by the NP instead. Which turned out fine, she was great.Good Job!
Anasha A.
Anasha A.
17:52 03 Jun 23
Very happy with the year check up today 06/01/23
juan S.
juan S.
18:43 01 Jun 23
I Loved the Dr I seen today she was extremely friendly and made me feel very comfortable.I’m definitely going to make this my primary GYN clinic
Quaidasia T.
Quaidasia T.
19:26 31 May 23
I went to Great City Medical for an immigration medical exam. Very friendly staff! The lady who worked with me was so sweet, explained everything and answered all my questions. I spent 15 min in my first visit there (blood work and fill out forms).Bring your immunization records to avoid extra charges for vaccine shots.UPD: I received I-693 in a sealed envelope as well as a copy of I-693. The whole process was smooth and straightforward.
Ksenia K
Ksenia K
17:23 26 May 23
Amazing service and fast !!!
White P.
White P.
20:21 23 May 23
Our experience was great we had great service and would recommend anyone with immigration medical examination to try this service. Thank to Great City Medical.
Joe V.
Joe V.
17:53 23 May 23
Excellent service. Great staff.
Ivette T.
Ivette T.
17:18 22 May 23
Super friendly and efficient. They know their stuff.
Chris S.
Chris S.
15:48 22 May 23
Great. Wait was surprising ok. Everyone was very nice 👍 Always a pleasant experience 😊
Lex G.
Lex G.
15:28 22 May 23
The wait was a little long, but worth it. They were great. Very nice ladies😁
Amanda P.
Amanda P.
16:55 17 May 23
Me encantaron las atenciones de principio a fin. Especialmente el trato de Anthony que se mostró muy empatico con mi caso y SUPER servicial y amable.También son muy considerados con lo que realmente a uno le hace falta y lo que no. Ellos hacen las cosas como se debe sin importar que cobren más o menos dinero.En general la experiencia fue excelente.
Nicanor N.
Nicanor N.
11:27 17 May 23
Great visit. Very efficient
Glenda C.
Glenda C.
21:05 15 May 23
Son muy amables las chicas del front desk y las doctoras también
luisaa L.
luisaa L.
19:31 08 May 23
From the front desk to the medical assistant, to the lab, and down to the doctor and whoever you passed by, it was excellent customer service. It was topnotch. I think the entire staff took extra customer service classes.Even the way they accommodate those who do not speak clear English is impressive. I must confess, I have never seen nor experienced such courtesy, patience and civility amongst healthcare professionals.The quality of service was also excellent. Very humble people. The doctor, very humble, accommodating, and HIGHLY professional.I’m glad I found this place. I highly recommend! 👍
Victoria A.
Victoria A.
19:31 04 May 23
Didn’t have an appointment and the money but I was taken care of staff where very friendly I do appreciate your service thank you.
Abdul M.
Abdul M.
16:31 01 May 23
They were so nice and patient and caring the best Clinic in New York
Stephanie H.
Stephanie H.
10:00 27 Apr 23
I love this place. The staff is the best, fluent Spanish, great service. I would come to their facility any day of the week!
Paul C.
Paul C.
16:09 26 Apr 23
Started my journey with Great City medical early this year, and it has been a positive experience soo far. Great team
Laila B.
Laila B.
18:35 18 Apr 23
Always have a pleasant experience with Dr. Granna.
Guillermo P.
Guillermo P.
17:40 17 Apr 23
Very professional all the staff in the front. My doctor the best and I am so thankful him. I have improved in my health. I so happy that get better and go part time job when 68 year in September turn 68years old.
Bevelynn T.
Bevelynn T.
17:29 14 Apr 23
Fue mi primera vez y me gusto mucho dan Excelente atención, las recepcionistas,la enfermera y la doctora muy amables, atienden muy rápido, dan un magnífico servicio, lo recomiendo al 💯
Zery M.
Zery M.
23:13 12 Apr 23
Great people great service
Ac B.
Ac B.
12:55 07 Apr 23
Very professional I recommend going to this facility. Staff was very friendly and courteous…
Charles Hackett J.
Charles Hackett J.
21:11 06 Apr 23
Always good service and kind people over there. I had 3 year’s going to there and I had good service with good doctors. Thank you for all the staff.
Yaneth P.
Yaneth P.
22:45 05 Apr 23
As a holistic & integrative practitioner, my PCP, Dr. Marly Grana is Amazing, has ALWAYS been & Is totally Respectful, Wise, patient, Gifted, extremely Understanding & smart treating me!Her staff, from the front desk-to-the-back is always accommodating & Extremely Professional as well!The facilities are clean.I’m blessed to have been invited to this new establishment when they began building.In this community, I’m fortunate to visit Amazing Acupuncturists, & GrowNYC.Sometimes it’s a win-win excursion.The gynecologist & her NP, on the other hand, does not support my insightful wholistic approach to healing & sustaining.
Bonita B.
Bonita B.
21:03 05 Apr 23
This is the best doctor office I have ever been ,the staffing it’s so professional and welcoming specially patricia I love her she’s amazing. My doctor Mikhail AkselRuD it’s the best ,he always give all the details about what you have and what treatment you need god bless all of them.
adalgisa S.
adalgisa S.
00:04 31 Mar 23
Great staff and service. Dr. Tsyba is the best!
Jackie L.
Jackie L.
20:05 30 Mar 23
Fast service, understanding. My Questions were answered and I felt very comfortable. Will definitely go again for follow up. Many blessings 🙌 🙏
Juanita E.
Juanita E.
23:17 29 Mar 23
I had a deadline to submit my I-693 and Great City medical came through just right for me. Timely and speedy process and the best customer service nurses I’ve experienced.
Ralph M.
Ralph M.
14:06 24 Mar 23
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