During each check-up throughout the pregnancy, you will receive an ultrasound scan at the practice or you will be informed about optional screening ultrasounds. Every Astrea midwife is qualified to make an ultrasound. Not every ultrasound is for medical reasons.
Ultrasound for health reasons and term ultrasound
The first ultrasound will be done during the first check-up. This takes place at the 8th week of pregnancy. We sometimes need to do this ultrasound internally because the uterus is very small at this point and we often cannot properly capture it with an external ultrasound. An internal ultrasound is safe and is not painful. If you object to an internal ultrasound scan, then please let us know. In such cases, we will try to make an ultrasound through the abdomen. It is important to note that your bladder should be full in this case. We recommend that you do not urinate for at least one hour before the ultrasound.
During this first ultrasound, we will check whether your baby’s heart is beating and whether you are expecting one or more babies. We cannot yet give any indication of the exact due date. This can only be done at the 10th week of pregnancy, when we will make a term ultrasound. You can also choose to have only the term ultrasound.
Ultrasound in week 13
As of 1 September 2021, you can choose to have an ultrasound in week 13.
The ultrasound in week 13 (first trimester SEO) is a medical examination that can take place between 12 weeks, 3 days and 14 weeks, 3 days of pregnancy. The ultrasound in week 13 allows you to find out early on in the pregnancy whether your baby has any serious physical defects. This ultrasound is also performed in CVONL and is reimbursed by your health insurance company. Karin and Leonie are also trained to make these ultrasounds.
Ultrasound in week 20
You can choose whether or not to have this ultrasound carried out. This ultrasound scan, made in the CVONL ultrasound centre, is used to determine whether your baby has any physical defects. The ultrasound in week 20 is a medical examination, instead of an ultrasound for enjoyment.
This is to examine in detail how your child’s organs are developing. Physical abnormalities may be identified as part of this process. It also checks the baby’s growth and your amniotic fluid level. The ultrasound in week 20 is also made by Karin and Leonie at the CVONL ultrasound centre.
Growth scan in weeks 28-32
On indication, a growth scan is made to determine whether your baby is growing well. We measure the head, the abdomen, and the thighbone. Based on the weight, we can determine whether your baby is growing well.
Ultrasound to determine position in week 36
At this time, the baby is examined to see whether it positioned with its head down. This is the most favourable position for delivery.
Ultrasound in the event of blood loss
More frequent ultrasound scans may be required on indication, for example if you lose blood.
All other ultrasounds performed in between those listed above are not medical ultrasounds.
