You don’t have to be at high risk for pregnancy complications to schedule—or to benefit from—an advanced ultrasound screening at the High Risk Pregnancy Center (HRPC). Many of the women we evaluate have no risk factors, but they want to know they’ve had the best testing available to rule out problems. It is critical that we provide the highest level of treatment for complications when needed, but we also love giving you that extra reassurance that everything appears perfectly normal with your pregnancy using the highest level of detection possible.
Advanced, Expert Fetal Ultrasound Provides Optimal Detection for Normal Pregnancies
Specialized training gives you peace of mind.
Why is an advanced ultrasound at HRPC preferable to those performed at many OB/GYN practices or local hospitals? Research has shown that women who have had advanced ultrasound testing performed by MFM specialists (also known as perinatologists) have a three-fold increase in the detection of abnormalities compared to community-based radiology or OB/GYN offices. This gives you several times the reassurance that everything appears to be progressing smoothly.
Another study, done right here in Las Vegas over a 3-year period, showed that there was a 100% rate of detection of heart defects requiring surgery when a perinatologist performed the ultrasound. In contrast, 2/3 of heart defects were not detected in ultrasounds performed in OB/GYN or radiology offices. By diagnosing problems early, our MFM specialists can work with your primary doctor or obstetrician to give you the best chance at a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
In most instances for mothers-to-be without risk factors, the diagnosis is normal, allowing you to relax and enjoy your pregnancy with the peace of mind that you and your baby are in good health.
The Benefits of Advanced Fetal Ultrasound
Advanced perinatal ultrasound, also known as fetal ultrasound, is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses sound waves to create a detailed image of the growing baby in the womb. Ultrasound plays a pivotal role in monitoring the baby’s growth, identifying potential issues, and providing valuable insights into the pregnancy.
Ultrasound is also known to be a safe diagnostic tool for both mother and baby. Just as importantly, all pregnant women, regardless of their risk factors, can benefit from an advanced perinatal ultrasound, not just women with high-risk pregnancies.
Advanced Perinatal Ultrasound Can Help With the Following:
- Visualization of the Baby’s Development – An ultrasound allows parents to see their baby’s growth and development in real-time, fostering a deeper connection with the pregnancy.
- Detection of Abnormalities – Advanced ultrasound can detect structural abnormalities, such as heart defects or issues with the baby’s organs, enabling timely intervention and planning for specialized care.
- Assessment of Placental Health – An ultrasound helps evaluate the health and function of the placenta, ensuring it provides optimal support to the growing baby.
- Sense of Reassurance – This test can provide just a little extra reassurance that everything is going well with the pregnancy.
Who Should Use Advanced Perinatal Ultrasound?
Advanced perinatal ultrasound is recommended for all pregnant women, regardless of their risk factors. This imaging tool is a routine part of prenatal care, offering valuable information that can guide doctors in ensuring a healthy pregnancy.
- Routine Screening – In low-risk pregnancies, routine ultrasound screenings can still provide reassurance and allow healthcare providers to identify any unexpected issues early on.
- High-Risk Pregnancies – For women with high-risk pregnancies, such as those with pre-existing medical conditions or a history of complications, advanced ultrasound becomes even more crucial in monitoring and managing potential risks.
When should Advanced Perinatal Ultrasound be used?
The timing of advanced perinatal ultrasound can vary, with different scans performed at different stages of pregnancy.
- First-Trimester Screening – An initial ultrasound, often performed between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy can be used to help confirm the due date, assess the baby’s overall health, and screen for potential chromosomal abnormalities.
- Anatomy Scan (18-22 Weeks) – This detailed scan examines the baby’s anatomy, including the heart, brain, spine, and organs, providing a comprehensive picture of the baby’s development.
- Ultrasound Scans As Required – Additional scans will be recommended as needed. Depending on the individual pregnancy and any identified concerns, additional scans may be recommended at various points to closely monitor the baby’s well-being.
Why have your ultrasound done by a specialist
Research has shown that women who have had advanced ultrasound testing performed by Maternal-Fetal-Medicine I(MFM) specialists have a three-fold increase in the detection of abnormalities compared to community-based radiology or OB/GYN offices. By diagnosing problems early, MFM specialists can work with your primary doctor or obstetrician to give you the very best chance at a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Advanced perinatal ultrasound is a cornerstone of good prenatal care. It’s an important tool that can be used as a guide on the journey to welcoming a healthy and happy addition to the family.