Preparing for ultrasound pregnancy

Overview

An ultrasound pregnancy scan (also called a sonogram) is a safe imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of your baby inside the womb. It is used to check your baby’s growth, position, and health, and to see how your pregnancy is progressing.

Yes, ultrasound is a routine part of pregnancy care across the world. It is very common and safe for both you and your baby.

Anyone who is pregnant may be offered an ultrasound scan to monitor their baby’s development and to check for any health concerns.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• No symptoms – the scan is part of routine prenatal care.
• Bleeding or pain in early pregnancy may prompt an early scan.
• Feeling the baby move less than usual in later pregnancy may lead to a scan.

Symptoms in children

• Not applicable – this topic is about the pregnant person, not children.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older pregnant people (age 35 or over) may be offered additional scans to screen for certain conditions, such as Down’s syndrome.

Causes

Main causes

• Routine monitoring – to check growth, position, and due date.
• Medical concerns – such as bleeding, pain, or concerns about the baby’s health.
• Screening for genetic conditions – often offered to older mothers or those with a family history.

Risk factors

• Having a multiple pregnancy (twins or more)
• Previous pregnancy complications
• Chronic health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have heavy vaginal bleeding or severe pain – go to the emergency room or call your local emergency number.
• If you are less than 37 weeks and have regular, painful contractions.
• If you suddenly stop feeling your baby move after 28 weeks.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Attend all scheduled antenatal appointments and scans.
• If you have any worries about your pregnancy, even if not urgent, contact your midwife or doctor.

Diagnosis

No diagnosis is made by the scan itself – it is an imaging test. The results are interpreted by a sonographer or radiologist and shared with your doctor or midwife.

Tests that may be done

• Transabdominal ultrasound – a handheld device (probe) is moved over your belly.
• Transvaginal ultrasound – a small probe is gently placed into the vagina, often used early in pregnancy for clearer images.

What to expect at your appointment

You will be asked to lie on a couch with your belly exposed. A warm gel is applied to your skin, and the sonographer moves a probe over your abdomen. The scan usually takes 15–30 minutes. You can ask questions and bring a partner or friend for support. For a transvaginal scan, you will have a private area and the probe is covered with a sterile cover.

Treatment

The 'treatment' here refers to what you can do to prepare for the scan and what happens afterward. There is no medical treatment for having an ultrasound – it is purely an imaging test.

Self-care at home

• For a transabdominal scan: drink water before the scan to fill your bladder – follow the instructions given by your clinic (often 500ml–1 litre about an hour before).
• Wear comfortable, two-piece clothing so you can easily expose your belly.
• Bring your pregnancy notes and any previous scan reports.
• Arrive a few minutes early to relax before the scan.

Medical treatments

No medications are needed for the scan itself. If the scan reveals a medical concern, your doctor will discuss next steps, which may include further monitoring, blood tests, or referral to a specialist. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not relevant to preparing for a routine pregnancy ultrasound. It may be considered later if a serious complication is found, but only your doctor can recommend that.

Living with this condition

Pregnancy ultrasound is a one-off test. After the scan, you can resume normal activities immediately. The results help guide your care for the rest of your pregnancy.

Lifestyle tips

• Continue with your usual healthy lifestyle as advised by your midwife or doctor.
• Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet.
• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs.

Diet and exercise

No special diet is needed before or after the scan. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, you can eat and drink normally after the scan. Gentle exercise like walking is generally safe in pregnancy.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Waiting for scan results can be stressful for some people. It is normal to feel anxious. Talk to your partner, friends, or healthcare team if you need support. Remember that most scans show a healthy baby.

Prevention

The need for an ultrasound scan is not something to 'prevent' – it is a routine part of healthy pregnancy care. You cannot prevent the need for monitoring, but taking good care of yourself reduces the risk of complications.

Vaccines

Omit – not relevant.

Screening programmes

Pregnancy ultrasound itself is a screening tool. If you are offered a scan, it helps detect potential issues early. Discuss with your provider whether you need any additional tests like blood screening.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a scan is not done when there are warning signs (such as bleeding or reduced movement), a serious condition like ectopic pregnancy, placental problems, or fetal distress could be missed.
• Delaying necessary scans may lead to complications being detected later, which can affect treatment options.

Long-term outlook

With routine ultrasound, most women have a healthy pregnancy and baby. Any issues found are often manageable with proper care. The scan gives your healthcare team the information they need to keep you and your baby safe.

Find support

International organisations

• World Health Organization (WHO) – Maternal Health ↗

Local organisations

• NHS (UK) – Ultrasound scans in pregnancy ↗ · United Kingdom

Helplines

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