The very first ultrasound during pregnancy is an exciting experience for many parents. It's the first time they see their baby's movements. But that (alone) is not the reason for the examination. In fact, regular ultrasounds during pregnancy are important to keep an eye on the baby's normal development. We explain in detail what you can expect at the appointments.
How often is an ultrasound done during pregnancy?
Seeing the unborn child's tiny hands for the first time, hearing the heartbeat for the first time, then pinning the small ultrasound image to the fridge at home: These are moments that parents-to-be will probably never forget. It has been possible to see and examine unborn babies via ultrasound since the late 1970s. As part of preventive care, this includes three major appointments during the pregnancy One appointment per trimester. The costs are covered by health insurance. If there are medical reasons to have further ultrasound examinations during the course of the pregnancy, for example in the case of a high-risk pregnancy, the health insurance company will also cover these costs.
Is it possible to arrange more than three ultrasound appointments?
Until the end of 2021, it was still possible to arrange further ultrasound appointments in addition to the three major examinations. For example, to observe the unborn child even more intensively with the help of a 3D ultrasound. This falls under so-called IGe services in medical practice. However, the new Radiation Protection Ordinance prohibits additional baby imaging. The legal text states: "A fetus must not be exposed when ultrasound equipment is used for non-medical purposes." This is justified by the fact that the foetus is a person in need of protection. The new Radiation Protection Ordinance is intended to protect the baby from unnecessary exposure, as the "baby cinema" is of no further benefit to the fetus or its health.
What can be seen with an ultrasound scan?
An amniotic cavity and possibly even a small dot can be seen on the ultrasound from as early as the 5th week of pregnancy. However, most gynecologists wait until the 9th week of pregnancy to determine the pregnancy beyond doubt after a positive pregnancy test. This is because an embryo can already be detected here.
The three basic ultrasound examinations are primarily used to assess whether the pregnancy and the development of the unborn child are proceeding normally. We explain what this means in detail below. An ectopic pregnancy or a pregnancy that is not intact can also be ruled out in this way. Incidentally, this is the rule: 96-98 women out of 100 pregnant women give birth to a healthy child. However, if there are any abnormalities in one of the three basic ultrasounds, further examinations can provide you with clarity.
9-12 weeks' gestation: The first major ultrasound during pregnancy
The first ultrasound is usually particularly exciting. It usually takes place from the 9th week of pregnancy. Here you can see whether the embryo has successfully nested in the amniotic cavity. The ultrasound is performed vaginally at this appointment, as this makes it easier to see the baby. The doctor can now also tell you which week of pregnancy you are in. In other words, the exact due date is calculated during this ultrasound. You can also see your heartbeat on the monitor for the first time. You can also find out for sure whether you have a multiple pregnancy. However, you will not find out the sex of the baby at this appointment. It's too early for that.
19-22 weeks' gestation: The second major ultrasound
Your baby is now really easy to recognize. At this appointment, the abdominal circumference, head circumference and the length of the thigh bone are measured and your doctor can confirm the age-appropriate development. The position of the placenta will also be checked, while you can follow the movements of your unborn child on the ultrasound. By the way: This is also the time when the sex of your baby can be determined. You must let the doctor know in advance if you do not want to know.
You can also opt for an extended basic ultrasound during this period. This is also covered by health insurance. However, only gynecologists who have passed a corresponding knowledge test are allowed to perform it. The following additional findings can be made during the extended basic ultrasound:
- Are the head and cerebral ventricles normally developed and is the cerebellum visible?
- Have the neck and back developed normally up to this point?
- What is the size ratio of the heart and chest, are all four chambers developed and is the heart beating rhythmically?
- Is the anterior abdominal wall closed?
29-32 weeks' gestation: The third major ultrasound
This is the last major ultrasound during pregnancy. Your unborn baby will be measured again. The position of the baby and the placenta will be checked. Both are important for your birth planning and the process. But don't worry: if your little one is not yet head down at this appointment, you don't need to stress. Many babies usually only turn towards the end of the pregnancy, sometimes just before the birth. Incidentally, some doctors have a 3D ultrasound machine for this appointment, which allows you to admire your miracle in all its glory and in great detail.
Can an ultrasound do any harm?
Ultrasound examinations are a very well-researched application. According to current knowledge, the sound waves do not harm either the pregnant woman or the child. The fact that the Radiation Protection Ordinance nevertheless prohibits further ultrasound appointments is due to the fact that unnecessary ultrasound examinations that are not medically indicated are to be curbed, if only to further minimize any risks to the foetus.
Is it possible to do without an ultrasound?
Expectant parents are free to forego all or individual ultrasound examinations during pregnancy. This has no effect on your health insurance cover. Perhaps you only want to find out whether your baby is developing according to age, but not whether it has malformations or what sex it will be. Or maybe you don't want to have an ultrasound during pregnancy because you don't want to expose yourself to the possible uncertainties, doubts and decision-making difficulties associated with it. All of this is entirely up to you, because it is your pregnancy. From a purely medical point of view, however, it is always advisable to attend your antenatal appointments as prescribed. And in most cases, such an ultrasound appointment will only increase your anticipation even more.
