About Fetal Ultrasound
Key Highlights
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Non-invasive and painless procedure with no known harmful radiation.Provides high-resolution, real-time images of the developing fetus.Enables detailed assessment of fetal anatomy, growth, and position.Crucial for early detection of potential birth defects or growth problems.Allows evaluation of the placenta, amniotic fluid, and umbilical cord blood flow.Offers reassurance to expectant parents about their baby's well-being.liGuides management decisions for high-risk pregnancies./li/ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Routine screening during the second trimester (anatomy scan).
- Advanced maternal age (over 35 years).
- Family or personal history of congenital anomalies.
- Suspected fetal growth restriction or macrosomia (large baby).
- Abnormal results from other screening tests (e.g., blood tests, nuchal translucency scan).
- Multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets).
- Maternal medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or autoimmune disorders.
- Evaluation of fetal well-being in high-risk pregnancies.
- Assessment after exposure to potential teratogens (harmful substances).
How to prepare
- A full bladder is often required for early pregnancy scans to provide a better acoustic window.
- For later scans, instructions may vary; follow the specific guidance from your clinic.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, preferably a two-piece outfit.
- No fasting or special diet is typically required.
- Bring your pregnancy records and reports from any previous ultrasounds.
- You may be asked to sign a consent form before the procedure.
Risks & possible complications
- Fetal ultrasound is considered extremely safe with no known risks from the sound waves used in standard diagnostic imaging.
- There is a small chance of anxiety or stress if a potential issue is identified, requiring further tests.
- Very rarely, a finding may be a "false positive," indicating a problem that is not actually present.
- Inconclusive results may necessitate a repeat scan or referral to a more specialized center.
Recovery & hospital stay
- There is no recovery time or downtime needed; you can resume normal activities immediately.
- You may be given a tissue to wipe off the clear, water-based gel applied to your abdomen.
- The specialist will discuss the preliminary findings with you after the scan.
- A detailed written report will be provided to you and your referring obstetrician.
- Follow any specific instructions given by your Fetal Medicine specialist regarding follow-up appointments or additional testing.
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Typical hospital stay: 0 days (outpatient procedure)
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Expected recovery time: 0 days (immediate)
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering fetal ultrasound in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with fetal medicine departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform fetal ultrasound. MediFyr helps you compare fetal medicines and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for fetal ultrasound compare across other countries where we have data.
Patient Name: Vihaan Iyer. Age &...
Patient Name: Vihaan Iyer. Age & Background: 32, a software engineer and first-time father-to-be, originally from Mumbai. Symptoms/History: His wife, Priya, is 20 weeks pregnant. Their routine 12-week scan showed a slightly increased nuchal translucency measurement, which can be a soft marker for potential chromosomal or cardiac issues. Doctor Recommendation: Their obstetrician referred them to a fetal medicine specialist for a detailed Level II (anatomy) ultrasound to get a comprehensive view of the baby's development, particularly focusing on the heart and overall anatomy. Treatment Experience: In the dimly lit scanning room, Vihaan held Priya's hand tightly. The specialist was calm and thorough, explaining each image on the screen, the spine, the brain, the tiny chambers of the heart beating rhythmically. The scan took nearly 45 minutes. The doctor pointed out all four chambers of the heart, the stomach, and the kidneys, all appearing normal. Post-Procedure Outcome: The detailed scan found no structural abnormalities. The baby's growth was on track. They were advised to continue with standard prenatal care, with immense relief. Emotional Journey: The weeks of waiting were filled with anxiety and 'what-ifs' for Vihaan, who had thrown himself into research. During the scan, he oscillated between fear and awe at seeing his child in such detail. The 'all clear' result brought an overwhelming wave of relief and joy, allowing him to finally embrace the excitement of impending fatherhood fully.
Fetal Medicines for Fetal Ultrasound
Explore experienced fetal medicines who regularly perform fetal ultrasound and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 8 Years Experience
- Fetal Medicine
- 10 Years Experience
- Fetal Medicine
Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road, Bangalore
- 24 Years Experience
- Fetal Medicine
Artemis Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon
- 33 Years Experience
- Fetal Medicine
Artemis Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon
- Years Experience
- Fetal Medicine
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar