When you’re expecting a baby, every step of the journey is filled with excitement, questions, and sometimes, concerns. Among the most common worries is the safety of undergoing scans during pregnancy, particularly when it comes to critical assessments like the fetal viability scan. It’s only natural to wonder if these scans might pose any risk to the baby or mother. In this blog, we’ll tackle these concerns head-on and explain why these scans are not only safe but also vital in ensuring a healthy pregnancy.
What is a Fetal Viability Scan?
A fetal viability scan is an ultrasound that doctors perform in early pregnancy to check the health and development of the fetus. It helps determine whether the pregnancy is progressing as expected, ensuring that the baby’s heartbeat is strong and that there are no visible complications in the early stages. This scan can offer reassurance to expecting parents and provide doctors with essential insights for monitoring both the mother’s and baby’s well-being.
Common Myths About Pregnancy Scans:
There are many misconceptions surrounding pregnancy scans, especially when it comes to the safety of ultrasounds. Let’s explore some of the most widespread myths and debunk them.
Myth 1: Pregnancy Scans Are Harmful to the Baby:
One of the most common concerns is that ultrasounds, including fetal viability scans, can harm the developing fetus. However, research has shown that ultrasound technology is completely safe when used appropriately by trained professionals. Ultrasound waves are non-invasive and do not use radiation, unlike X-rays. Instead, they rely on sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. These sound waves are well within safe limits and have been extensively studied to ensure they do not cause any harm.
Myth 2: Ultrasound Scans Can Cause Miscarriage:
Another myth that often circulates is that undergoing an ultrasound can lead to a miscarriage. This claim is unfounded. Ultrasounds are performed routinely throughout pregnancies and are a standard part of prenatal care. They are done to monitor the health of both mother and baby, with no evidence to suggest that the procedure increases the risk of miscarriage.
Myth 3: You Should Limit Scans to Only What’s Absolutely Necessary:
While it’s true that excessive medical procedures should be avoided, a fetal viability scan is not only safe but essential, particularly during the early stages of pregnancy. Early scans help detect potential issues like ectopic pregnancies or early signs of fetal distress. By addressing these problems promptly, healthcare providers can significantly increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy. Limiting these vital scans could be detrimental to both the mother and the baby, as early complications may go undiagnosed.
Myth 4: The Results of Scans Are Always Accurate:
While fetal viability scans are highly reliable, no diagnostic procedure is 100% accurate. There are factors such as the baby’s position, the quality of the ultrasound equipment, or even the expertise of the person conducting the scan that can influence the results. However, it’s important to note that these scans are very effective at providing accurate assessments when conducted by trained professionals. Any uncertainties are often clarified with follow-up scans or additional tests.
The Importance of Regular Fetal Scans:
Now that we’ve debunked some common myths, let’s focus on why regular fetal scans are so crucial during pregnancy.
Early Detection of Potential Problems:
The fetal viability scan is one of the first opportunities to confirm a healthy pregnancy. If there are any issues—such as a missed miscarriage, an ectopic pregnancy, or early signs of complications—early detection can be life-saving. It gives healthcare providers the time to intervene and take necessary steps to ensure the best possible outcome.
Monitoring Baby’s Growth and Development:
Regular scans throughout pregnancy allow doctors to track the baby’s growth, check for signs of abnormalities, and assess the placenta’s health. This ensures that both mother and baby are thriving, and any potential problems can be addressed quickly. For example, a fetal viability scan can reveal if the baby is growing at the right rate, which is important for monitoring their overall health.
Peace of Mind for Parents:
For expecting parents, there’s often a great deal of anxiety surrounding the unknowns of pregnancy. Knowing that everything is progressing as expected can bring peace of mind. Whether it’s hearing the baby’s heartbeat for the first time or confirming a healthy pregnancy with a fetal viability scan, these moments can be incredibly reassuring during an emotional and transformative time.
Is It Safe to Scan Regularly?
The frequency of scans depends on the specific needs of each pregnancy. In general, most pregnancies will involve a few ultrasounds, including the fetal viability scan, with additional scans if necessary. The healthcare provider will recommend the appropriate number of scans based on the individual situation, but rest assured, they are all designed with the safety of both mother and baby in mind.
Why You Can Trust Professional Care Providers?
At The Garbh, we provide comprehensive care for expecting mothers, ensuring that each scan is done professionally and safely. Our team of experienced professionals uses state-of-the-art equipment and follows all the necessary protocols to ensure that every scan is performed with the utmost care and attention to detail. Whether you’re getting your first fetal viability scan or need ongoing monitoring throughout your pregnancy, we’re here to provide expert support every step of the way.
Conclusion:
If you’ve been worried about the safety of pregnancy scans, it’s time to set those concerns aside. A fetal viability scan is a safe, crucial, and effective tool in ensuring that your pregnancy is progressing smoothly. With the right care and guidance, you can rest assured that both you and your baby are in good hands.
Are you ready to take the next step in your pregnancy journey? At The Garbh, we offer personalized care and the latest in prenatal technology to support you through every stage of your pregnancy. Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule your next scan!
Sandy D