Once you learn that you’re pregnant, you may be excited for your first glimpse of the baby during an ultrasound. Not only does this scan allow you to see the fetus, but it will also check your health and the development of the baby. Below is what you can expect to learn during ultrasound appointments during each trimester.

First Trimester

Many doctors perform an ultrasound during the first trimester to confirm the pregnancy and check the viability of the baby. When utilized during the first 5–6 weeks of pregnancy, the physician will be looking for the gestational and yolk sacs. Scans performed after this time will typically be used to measure the baby and track growth and development.

Second Trimester

During ultrasounds in the second trimester, your obstetrician will be looking at the development of your baby’s vital organs, including their heart, kidneys, lungs, bladder, stomach, brain, and spine. This ultrasound is typically done between 18-22 weeks, which allows the doctor to inform you of your baby’s sex if you want to know. This scan can also look for soft markers that may indicate risk factors for chromosomal abnormalities.

Third Trimester

As you begin to near the end of your pregnancy, your doctor may perform another ultrasound to determine the position the baby is in. By this time in your pregnancy, many babies are already head down to prepare for delivery. Even if your baby is not head down yet, there are exercises you can perform to help encourage this position. The doctor will also be looking to see where your placenta is located, as well as checking the fluid in your uterus to ensure the baby is still healthy and safe.

If you’ve recently found out you’re expecting, visit the professionals at Alaska Women’s Health PC in Anchorage. With more than 30 years of experience, the doctors will help during every step of your pregnancy, from first trimester ultrasounds to labor and delivery. To learn more about the services offered by this practice, visit them online, and call (907) 563-7228 to schedule an appointment.