Ultrasound, also known as sonography, is a widely used diagnostic tool during pregnancy to monitor fetal growth and development. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the fetus inside the mother’s womb. One of the most common questions that expectant parents have is when they can see the fetus on an ultrasound.
The answer to this question depends on various factors, including the purpose of the ultrasound, the type of ultrasound used, and the position of the fetus in the uterus. In general, an ultrasound can detect a fetus as early as 5-6 weeks after the mother’s last menstrual period.
The first ultrasound during pregnancy, called a dating ultrasound, is usually performed between 8 and 12 weeks of pregnancy. This ultrasound is done to determine the age of the fetus, confirm the due date, and detect any multiple pregnancies.
During the dating ultrasound, the sonographer will look for several things, including the size and shape of the fetus, the presence of a heartbeat, and the number of fetuses present. If the ultrasound is performed after 10 weeks of pregnancy, the sonographer may also be able to detect the presence of fingers, toes, and other anatomical features.
Another common ultrasound performed during pregnancy is the anatomy scan, which is typically done between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. This ultrasound is more comprehensive and is used to evaluate the fetus’s overall health and development. During the anatomy scan, the sonographer will examine the fetus’s brain, heart, kidneys, spine, limbs, and other organs.
In some cases, a transvaginal ultrasound may be required to see the fetus earlier in pregnancy. This type of ultrasound involves inserting a small probe into the vagina, which provides a closer and clearer image of the uterus and fetus.
In conclusion, the timing of when the fetus can be seen on an ultrasound depends on several factors. In general, an ultrasound can detect a fetus as early as 5-6 weeks after the mother’s last menstrual period. However, the first ultrasound is usually performed between 8 and 12 weeks of pregnancy to determine the age of the fetus and confirm the due date. The anatomy scan, which evaluates the fetus’s overall health and development, is typically done between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy.
