Ultrasound examination is the most accurate and effective assessment of the condition of the pregnant woman and the fetus at different gestational stages. A woman undergoes it for the first time after learning about pregnancy, and then several more times during pregnancy.
A pregnant woman must undergo at least three routine screening ultrasounds without fail: during the period 10-14, 20-24, 32-34 weeks.
An ultrasound may also be required at an earlier stage or immediately before birth - an unscheduled examination is prescribed if the diagnosis is questionable or if there is an increased risk of pregnancy complications.
Observing the course of pregnancy week by week, the doctor pursues the following goals:
• confirmation of pregnancy;
• monitoring the development of the fetus, its size and weight;
• assessment of fetal viability;
• detection of pathologies at all stages of pregnancy;
• determining the sex of the child;
• assessment of maturity parameters, size and place of attachment of the placenta;
• calculation of amniotic fluid (amniotic fluid) values.
Ultrasound by week of pregnancy is the most important examination during pregnancy.