Ultrasound in Pregnancy: What to Expect
Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and is completely safe for you and your baby. Most mothers have 3 to 5 scans during pregnancy. Here is what each one is for and when to book it.
Pregnancy Scans, Week by Week
6 to 9 weeks: Early pregnancy scan
Confirms the pregnancy is in the uterus, checks the heartbeat, counts babies and dates the pregnancy. Usually needs a full bladder.
11 to 14 weeks: NT Scan
Measures the fluid at the back of the baby’s neck (nuchal translucency) and, with a blood test, screens for Down syndrome and other conditions. The timing window is short, so book early.
18 to 22 weeks: Anomaly Scan (Level 2)
The most detailed scan. Checks the baby’s brain, face, spine, heart, kidneys, limbs and the placenta. It takes 30 to 45 minutes.
28 to 36 weeks: Growth scan (FWB)
Checks the baby’s growth, position, amniotic fluid and placenta. Your doctor may repeat it if needed.
When advised: Colour Doppler
Checks blood flow to the baby and placenta, often advised for high blood pressure, diabetes or a small baby.
How to Prepare
- Early pregnancy (before 12 weeks): drink 4 to 5 glasses of water an hour before and come with a full bladder.
- Later scans: usually no special preparation. Eat normally.
- Wear a loose two-piece outfit so the tummy is easy to uncover.
- Bring your doctor’s prescription, previous scan reports and blood reports.
- Bring a government photo ID: the PC-PNDT form must be filled for every pregnancy scan.
During the Scan
You lie on your back and a cool gel is put on your tummy. The probe moves over the skin; it does not hurt. Early scans are sometimes done through the vagina for a clearer view, always with your consent. Ordinary scans take 10 to 20 minutes.
USG timings: main centre Mon to Sat, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Sun 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM; Pillar No. 71 unit Mon to Sat, 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM.
Important: PC-PNDT Act
Under the PC-PNDT Act, finding out or telling the sex of the baby is a punishable offence in India. Sex determination is not done and not disclosed at JP Diagnostic, and we request families not to ask. Every pregnancy scan is recorded as the law requires.
Common Questions
Is ultrasound safe for my baby?
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not X-rays, and has been used in pregnancy for decades.
Can my husband or family come in?
One family member can usually accompany you. Please ask at the counter.
Will I get the report the same day?
Yes, pregnancy scan reports are usually given the same day.
What if the baby is not in a good position?
Sometimes the sonologist asks you to walk around or come back later the same day so the baby moves into a better position. This is normal.
Book Your Pregnancy Scan
Phone: +91 75420 29727 · 90066 77776