Obstetrics• Updated 21 October 2026
Pregnancy Ultrasound
Ultrasound scans during pregnancy to check the baby's age, growth, position and the placenta.
Results: Same day
Quick Summary
Primary Purpose
To confirm pregnancy, date it, check growth and screen for some abnormalities.
What It Measures
Number of babies, heartbeat, growth, placenta and fluid.
Preparation
Early scans may need a full bladder.
Overview
Common scans are a dating scan in the first trimester, the NT scan at 11–14 weeks and an anomaly scan at 18–22 weeks.
In India, it's illegal to use ultrasound to find out the baby's sex.
What It Measures
Dating
Due date.
Growth and wellbeing
Size, movements and fluid.
How It's Performed
- 01
Preparation
As advised for the stage of pregnancy.
- 02
Scan
Gel and probe on the tummy; sometimes transvaginal early on.
- 03
Results
Discussed at the visit.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Ultrasound(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine
- Ultrasound scan(opens in a new tab) · NHS