Pregnancy ultrasounds (1st, 2nd and 3rd trimester)
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Pregnancy ultrasounds (1st, 2nd and 3rd trimester)

Pregnancy ultrasound in Tunis, Tunisia · Centre Urbain Nord

Pregnancy ultrasounds in Tunis: dating, nuchal translucency, baby's growth, placenta and amniotic fluid, in all three trimesters.

What is it?

Pregnancy ultrasounds follow the baby's development. The schedule is set by your gynaecologist or midwife; as a general rule, one scan is offered in each trimester. In the first trimester (usually between 11 and 14 weeks of amenorrhoea), it confirms the pregnancy, dates it, counts the babies and measures the nuchal translucency, which is used to calculate the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities. In the second and third trimesters, it follows the baby's growth, position, the placenta and the amount of amniotic fluid. An obstetric ultrasound can also be requested outside this schedule, for a check-up or because of a symptom. The detailed study of the baby's anatomy is described on a separate page (anomaly scan).

When is it indicated?

Dating the pregnancy

In the first trimester, the baby's measurements are used to set the due date.

Nuchal translucency measurement

Combined with a blood test, it is used to estimate the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities.

Baby’s growth

In the second and third trimesters, it checks that the baby is growing well.

Placenta, fluid and baby’s position

It shows the position of the placenta, the amount of fluid and how the baby is lying before birth.

Preparation

1Bring your pregnancy record, previous scans and test results
2In early pregnancy, a full bladder may be requested, as instructed when booking
3Do not apply cream to your abdomen on the day of the examination
4Wear clothes that are easy to remove or lift over the area to be examined

Procedure

1

You lie on your back with your abdomen uncovered

2

A slightly cold gel is applied to the skin so that the ultrasound waves pass through well

3

The doctor moves the probe over your abdomen and measures the baby; in early pregnancy, a transvaginal probe may be used with your consent

4

The doctor shows you the images and explains what can be seen

5

The gel is wiped off; you can return to your usual activities straight away

Duration

About 20 to 40 minutes

Results

The images are analysed by the doctor performing the examination, who writes a report. The report is given to you with the relevant images and sent to your doctor, who will explain the results and the next steps. You will be told when to expect it on the day of the examination.

Precautions and contraindications

No X-rays: ultrasound has been used for many years to monitor pregnancy
No known risk to mother or baby when performed for a medical reason
Painless; the pressure of the probe may be a little uncomfortable in late pregnancy
If the baby is in an awkward position, the examination may take longer or be completed another day

Your doctor and the radiology team will inform you in detail before the examination. Feel free to ask them your questions.

This information is general and does not replace the advice of your doctor, who chooses the examination suited to your situation.

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