Pregnancy Ultrasound in Lagos: Types, Timing and What to Expect
Pregnancy is a journey filled with important appointments, examinations and decisions. One of the most common investigations during pregnancy is an ultrasound scan.
If you are looking for a pregnancy ultrasound in Lagos, you may want to know when you should have a scan, what different types of pregnancy ultrasound are available, what happens during the examination and what your doctor may be looking for.
Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of structures inside the body. During pregnancy, it can provide valuable information about the pregnancy and the developing baby.
The timing and type of ultrasound recommended will depend on your stage of pregnancy and individual medical circumstances.
What Is a Pregnancy Ultrasound?
A pregnancy ultrasound is an imaging examination used to assess the pregnancy.
It can provide information about the location of the pregnancy, fetal development, gestational age and other features depending on the stage of pregnancy and type of scan performed.
Ultrasound does not use ionising radiation.
At Arctic Gynae Centre, our Radiology services include ultrasonography and Doppler services that support women’s healthcare and pregnancy care.
When Should You Have a Pregnancy Ultrasound?
There is no single ultrasound schedule that applies to every pregnancy.
Your doctor may recommend an ultrasound based on factors such as:
- How far along you are in your pregnancy
- Your symptoms
- Your medical history
- Previous pregnancy history
- Concerns identified during antenatal care
- The purpose of the examination
Some women may have an ultrasound early in pregnancy, while others may require additional scans as the pregnancy progresses.
Your healthcare provider will advise you about the timing that is appropriate for your circumstances.
Early Pregnancy Ultrasound
An early pregnancy ultrasound may be recommended for several reasons.
Depending on the stage of pregnancy and clinical circumstances, it may help assess:
- Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus
- Gestational age
- Development of the pregnancy
- Number of pregnancies
- Other features that your healthcare provider may need to evaluate
An early scan may be particularly useful if you have symptoms such as abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding or if there is uncertainty about the timing of the pregnancy.
If you have significant pain or bleeding during pregnancy, seek medical advice promptly.
First-Trimester Ultrasound
Ultrasound during the first trimester can provide information about the developing pregnancy.
Depending on the purpose of the examination, the scan may be used to assess gestational age, fetal development and other aspects of the pregnancy.
Your healthcare provider will determine which type of scan is appropriate.
Second-Trimester Pregnancy Ultrasound
As pregnancy progresses, ultrasound can provide more detailed information about fetal growth and development.
A mid-pregnancy scan may be used to assess fetal anatomy and other features of the pregnancy.
The specific examination performed will depend on your healthcare provider’s recommendation and the available clinical information.
Third-Trimester Ultrasound
Later in pregnancy, ultrasound may be used when your healthcare provider needs to assess aspects such as fetal growth, position or other pregnancy-related factors.
Additional imaging may be recommended when there is a particular clinical reason to monitor the pregnancy.
Not every woman will require the same number of scans.
What Is a Doppler Ultrasound During Pregnancy?
Doppler ultrasound is a specialised form of ultrasound that can assess blood flow.
During pregnancy, Doppler may be used when your healthcare provider needs additional information about blood flow in certain vessels.
It can be particularly useful in pregnancies where closer monitoring is clinically indicated.
Arctic Gynae Centre provides Radiology and Doppler services as part of its diagnostic services.
Your doctor will determine whether Doppler ultrasound is appropriate for you.
What Happens During a Pregnancy Ultrasound?
The exact process depends on the type of ultrasound being performed.
For an abdominal ultrasound, you may be asked to lie comfortably while the sonographer applies ultrasound gel to your abdomen.
A handheld device called a transducer is then moved across the skin to produce images.
The procedure is generally straightforward and does not involve radiation.
In early pregnancy, a transvaginal ultrasound may sometimes be recommended. This involves using a specialised ultrasound probe inserted into the vagina to obtain clearer images of the pelvic structures.
Your healthcare provider will explain the procedure before it is performed.
Does Pregnancy Ultrasound Hurt?
An abdominal ultrasound is generally not painful.
You may experience some pressure from the ultrasound probe as it is moved across your abdomen.
A transvaginal ultrasound may cause some discomfort, particularly if you are already experiencing pelvic tenderness, but it should not normally be severely painful.
Tell the healthcare professional if you experience significant discomfort during the examination.
Do You Need to Prepare for a Pregnancy Ultrasound?
Preparation depends on the type of scan and the stage of pregnancy.
For some early pregnancy ultrasounds, you may be advised to have a partially full bladder because this can help improve the ultrasound view.
Other scans may not require a full bladder.
Your healthcare provider or imaging centre should provide specific preparation instructions before your appointment.
What Can a Pregnancy Ultrasound Show?
Depending on the stage of pregnancy and the type of examination, an ultrasound may provide information about:
- Pregnancy location
- Gestational age
- Number of fetuses
- Fetal development
- Fetal growth
- Fetal position
- Placental location
- Amniotic fluid
- Certain structural features
- Blood flow when Doppler is used
The information available from an ultrasound depends on several factors, including the stage of pregnancy, fetal position and quality of the images.
Not every condition can be detected through ultrasound.
Does an Ultrasound Confirm That a Baby Is Healthy?
An ultrasound provides important information about a pregnancy, but it cannot guarantee that a baby has no health problems.
Some conditions may not be visible on ultrasound, and the ability to identify certain abnormalities can depend on gestational age, fetal position, equipment and other factors.
Your doctor or sonographer can explain what was assessed during your scan and whether further investigations are recommended.
How Many Ultrasounds Do You Need During Pregnancy?
The number of ultrasound examinations needed varies between pregnancies.
Some women may require only the scans routinely recommended as part of their pregnancy care, while others may need additional examinations because of symptoms, medical history or findings during antenatal care.
More scans do not necessarily mean better care.
Your healthcare provider should recommend imaging based on your individual clinical circumstances.
Pregnancy Ultrasound and Antenatal Care
Ultrasound is one part of pregnancy care.
Antenatal care may also include medical consultations, physical assessments, laboratory investigations and discussions about nutrition, medications, pregnancy symptoms and preparation for childbirth.
Arctic Gynae Centre provides Obstetrics and antenatal care for women throughout pregnancy.
Where diagnostic imaging is required, our Radiology services can support the pregnancy care process.
When Should You Get an Urgent Pregnancy Assessment?
While many pregnancy symptoms are normal, certain symptoms require prompt medical attention.
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience concerning symptoms such as:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
- Severe or persistent headache
- Sudden swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of consciousness
- Significant reduction in fetal movement later in pregnancy
- Other sudden or concerning symptoms
If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, seek urgent medical attention rather than waiting for a routine ultrasound appointment.
Choosing a Pregnancy Ultrasound Centre in Lagos
If you are searching for a pregnancy ultrasound in Lagos, consider a facility where diagnostic imaging is integrated with appropriate women’s healthcare.
Important factors may include:
Qualified professionals
Your ultrasound should be performed and interpreted by appropriately trained healthcare professionals.
Appropriate equipment
Quality imaging equipment can support the assessment of pregnancy and other reproductive health conditions.
Access to specialist care
If an ultrasound identifies something requiring further evaluation, access to obstetric or gynaecological care can be useful.
Clear communication
You should have the opportunity to ask questions and understand the purpose of your scan and the findings that are communicated to you.
Convenient location
For pregnant women who may require multiple appointments, choosing a conveniently located facility can make ongoing care easier.
Pregnancy Ultrasound at Arctic Gynae Centre
Arctic Gynae Centre provides pregnancy-related diagnostic and medical services for women in Lagos.
Our Radiology services include ultrasonography and Doppler services.
Our Obstetrics services provide antenatal and pregnancy care, allowing women to receive appropriate medical guidance throughout their pregnancy.
If you are unsure which type of ultrasound you need, your doctor can assess your circumstances and recommend the appropriate examination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pregnancy Ultrasound
When should I have my first pregnancy ultrasound?
The timing depends on your pregnancy and the reason for the scan. Your healthcare provider can recommend the appropriate time based on your circumstances.
Is pregnancy ultrasound safe?
Ultrasound does not use ionising radiation. It should be performed when clinically appropriate by trained professionals.
Can I have an ultrasound early in pregnancy?
Yes. An early pregnancy ultrasound may be recommended for reasons such as confirming the location or development of the pregnancy or assessing certain symptoms.
Is Doppler ultrasound necessary for every pregnancy?
No. Doppler ultrasound is used when there is a clinical reason to assess blood flow. Your healthcare provider will determine whether it is appropriate.
How long does a pregnancy ultrasound take?
The duration varies depending on the type of examination and what needs to be assessed.
Where can I get a pregnancy ultrasound in Lagos?
Arctic Gynae Centre provides ultrasound and Doppler services in Lagos. You can book an appointment if you need a pregnancy ultrasound or would like to discuss your imaging needs with the medical team.
Book a Pregnancy Ultrasound in Lagos
A pregnancy ultrasound can provide valuable information about your pregnancy when it is clinically indicated.
If you are pregnant and have been advised to have an ultrasound, Arctic Gynae Centre provides diagnostic imaging alongside obstetric and women’s healthcare services.
If you are looking for a pregnancy ultrasound in Lagos, you can book an appointment with Arctic Gynae Centre to discuss your pregnancy and imaging needs.
You can also learn more about our Radiology services and Obstetrics services.
Arctic Gynae Centre
R5, Atlantic Vista Estate, Olokonla, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos
Phone: +234 913 215 9156
Email: info@arcticobgyn.com
