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Pregnancy is an exciting time, and everything starts to feel real during the first ultrasound. If you haven’t had children before, it’s common to feel anxious about the initial appointment. OB-GYN, Dr. Joseph Hazan of Advanced OB-GYN Services in St. Peters and St. Louis, MO, offers some guidance about what to expect, so you can walk in confident and prepared. 

The Ultrasound 

Typically, the first ultrasound happens during the eight- to twelve-week mark to confirm a pregnancy and set the due date. It is usually done vaginally, rather than on the belly, and the OB-GYN will ensure it’s comfortable and painless. After the first trimester, the ultrasounds will mostly be on the stomach, where a gel is placed directly on the area, and the transducer is moved around to get pictures. Many choose to have their partners or loved ones present in the room during the visit, but it’s optional.

What the Technician Looks For

ob-gynThe doctor will check for any abnormalities, confirm the baby appears healthy and is in the right location, and determine if there are multiples in the womb. You can hear the heartbeat before the eight-week mark, so you may get a chance to listen during the first visit, too. Overall, the technician ensures the baby is developing properly and that everything is healthy. 

The first appointment is also a great time to ask any questions you may have about the pregnancy so far, or what’s to come. It’s helpful to write down any concerns ahead of time, as it’s easy to get distracted during the session. Finally, you’ll get to go home with some images from the ultrasound to keep and show to loved ones. 

If you’re pregnant and searching for a caring and experienced OB-GYN, turn to Dr. Joseph Hazan and his team at Advanced OB-GYN Services. For over 30 years, Dr. Hazan has been providing cutting-edge obstetrics gynecology care, helping women in every stage, from prenatal to pregnancy and beyond. To learn more about their OB-GYN services, visit them online or call (314) 291-2140 for the St. Louis location or (636) 928-1800 for the St. Peters office. 

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