Do I need to book an appointment?
Yes, ultrasound exams do need an appointment.
If you cannot attend your apwpointment we appreciate it if you can giveg us 24 hours notice.
What stage do I have a Growth Pregnancy Scan?
We perform the Growth pregnancy scan from 20 weeks up to 40 weeks of pregnancy.
How should I prepare for a Growth pregnancy ultrasound?
When you attend for a Growth pregnancy ultrasound you do not need a filled urinary bladder to help view the pregnancy. You will need to know your established due date. It is important to wear loose comfortable clothing.
Why is a Growth scan performed?
An ultrasound during the later stages of the pregnancy is not always required but some parents feel they would like another ultrasound assessment of the baby’s development in the womb during pregnancy. You may also have symptoms such as pain, vaginal bleeding, contractions or reduced fetal movements. This growth ultrasound can help provide parents with reassurance that the baby is okay.
During this ultrasound, we determine the baby’s size and growth. Parents may be anxious that their baby is not growing, or perhaps that they are too small or too large. In some cases, you may have a condition that could affect the growth of the baby, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. We also view the placenta, the baby’s position as well as address any possible change in a concern which was noted on an earlier ultrasound examination.
If you have a twin/multiple pregnancy your babies are at a higher risk of growth issues during the pregnancy which is natural. Your twin babies, depending on the type of pregnancy, could also be at an increased risk of other difficulties and you may just want to be reassured.
Will I be able to see the scan?
Yes, the ultrasound is available for you to view on a large screen located at the end of the ultrasound couch. The sonographer will explain what you are looking at and point out various items to look at on the ultrasound. You will also be able to hear the baby’s heartbeat. We aim to make this ultrasound scan an enjoyable experience for you.
What to expect at Ultrasound Ireland?
When you arrive at Ultrasound Ireland you will be met by our receptionist. Your waiver will have been sent to you by text or email. You can then relax in our waiting area until the sonographer comes to meet you and take you into the scanning room. Your personal details from your completed waiver will be confirmed by the sonographer before beginning the scan.
What happens during the Growth baby pregnancy ultrasound scan?
The scan is a non-invasive transabdominal scan, and it is not necessary to attend the clinic with a full bladder for the growth scan. An abdominal scan is performed by placing some gel and the transducer onto your abdomen.
Will I be able to find out the gender of my baby?
At 18 weeks or later we can determine the gender of your baby with a 97% accuracy. However, sometimes, the baby is not in a desirable position to see the gender. If you want to determine the gender of your baby, please let us know on your registration form and confirm with the sonographer at the start of your scan. Determining the gender of your baby depends on baby to be in a position that can allow the Sonographer to view the genital area and sometimes the baby may not oblige!
What will happen if a problem is suspected?
If at the time of scan a problem is suspected, you will be told at that stage that there may be a problem and advised to contact your obstetrician / family GP to discuss our findings in more detail. We will provide details of our findings for you and you are welcome to contact us for further clarification at any stage.
Do I need a doctor's referral for a pregnancy ultrasound?
Pregnancy scans at our centre are elective so you don't have to have a referral. Just call or email to make an appointment ( 01 210 0232 )
Can family members attend my ultrasound appointment?
A pregnancy scan is a family affair at our clinic, so you can share your baby scan experience by bringing whomever you want and as many people as you like.