Early ultrasound – Midwives Lelystad

You took a pregnancy test and it was positive. What are next?
steps to get the best care for your baby?

Call a midwife in your area to let them know that you have a positive pregnancy test and to make an appointment.

The next step is to schedule your baby's first ultrasound.

When should you have your first ultrasound?

Although ultrasounds can be performed as early as 6 weeks of pregnancy, we recommend as midwives
It is usually recommended to schedule your first ultrasound when you are between 7 and 8 weeks pregnant. This is to prevent the calculated period from being correct and you from possibly not immediately seeing a beating heart with a very early ultrasound scan. When you make an ultrasound at 8 weeks, you should theoretically see a beating heart on the ultrasound, provided everything is fine of course.

Types of ultrasound examination

At this early stage of pregnancy, the transvaginal ultrasound (internal ultrasound) and transabdominal ultrasound (ultrasound through the abdomen) are most commonly used.

The transvaginal ultrasound is more accurate for obtaining measurements and a heart rate so early in the 1st trimester.

This test uses a probe inserted into the vagina to get a closer look at the uterus.

It shows the growth of the gestational sac a week before it is visible on a regular transabdominal ultrasound (through the abdomen).

At the Transabdominal Ultrasound the traditional transducer over the abdomen is used to send sound waves to the pelvis, which sends an image back to the screen where you see your baby.

This exam can also be used to view and monitor the cervix, ovaries, and bladder while you are pregnant.

What will the first ultrasound tell you?

This is quite an experience for the mother, but also for the partner if she comes along. This is the moment when you first experience the
hear your little one's heartbeat.

While you marvel at what is happening in your body, the sonographer takes the necessary measurements to find out more about growth and the estimated age.

The measurements taken include the size of:

● The gestational sac
● The yolk sac
● The fetus
At approximately 6 weeks, the Crown Rump Length (CRL) can also be used in the 1st
trimester measurements to help with growth and age.

The CRL is one of the best estimates of gestational age in early pregnancy.

The ultrasound picks up the heart rate to measure whether it is within a normal, healthy range. With an early ultrasound, the heart rate is only measured, not listened to. This is because we are not sure if it is harmful to the baby.

Once all measurements have been collected, the sonographer has a better idea of when fertilization took place and a more accurate due date can be determined.

Photos first ultrasound

Often you get pea-sized pictures of your baby so you can see the beautiful
share news with friends and family when you're ready.

What are the next steps for you and your
family?

As part of your prenatal care, the health of both you and your child will be closely monitored over the next 8 months.

At Midwives Lelystad we strongly recommend that you make a routine appointment every month to have the condition of the baby and yourself checked.

The monthly appointments will also contribute to a more positive experience during pregnancy, as questions and concerns can be discussed.

The gender reveal!

There are many milestones you will experience during your pregnancy. One of the most exciting appointments is finding out the gender.

In your 2nd trimester, between weeks 15 and 16, you can make an appointment for an ultrasound to see if you are having a boy or a girl. We call this a fun ultrasound. A fun ultrasound is not reimbursed by the insurer, you pay these costs yourself.

Then, 3-4 weeks after the gender is known, you can choose to have one
make a detailed anatomical ultrasound, the screening ultrasound at 20 weeks. This ultrasound is also called the twenty-week ultrasound. This is planned around the time you are 18 to 20 weeks pregnant.

Take a taste!

During this exciting time, parents can't wait to meet their little one. While at our Glendale location we know that patients have a great preference for how the baby is developing, it is amazing to watch his or her facial features form.

The best thing is to record these developments using a 3D and 4D ultrasound. For the most beautiful pictures, have a 3D/4D ultrasound made in the 3rd trimester.

Make the most of your pregnancy journey

Babies are a precious joy. From the day you discover you are pregnant,
you'll embark on an awe-inspiring experience as you watch your little one grow in your womb.

With today's technology, you get clear, detailed photos to share with others during this exciting time.

Seeing your baby as the day of delivery approaches only increases the anticipation of his or her arrival. Enjoy this time with advances in ultrasound to see your child up close before he or she is in your arms!

We know there are many questions for expectant mothers. So please know that we are here to help you on your unique journey.