If you’re in your first trimester of pregnancy, you’re ready for your first ultrasound! This is one of the most exciting milestones for any new parent, and you may even see it as the first chance to meet the new addition to your family! Unfortunately, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding this procedure, so the Memphis Obstetrics & Gynecological Association, P.C. team is busting the myths about ultrasounds. Keep reading to learn more!
Myth: Ultrasounds use radiation to detect your baby
Fact: Ultrasounds don’t use radiation – they use sound waves!
Whenever radiation is brought into the picture, most people (especially new mothers worried about the well-being of their children) feel apprehensive about moving forward. Although radiation isn’t harmful in very small, controlled amounts, excessive exposure can harm a growing fetus.
Fortunately, you can mark fears about radiation off your list completely. Ultrasounds don’t use it at all! Instead, they use high-frequency sound waves that bounce off tissue to produce an image of your baby called a sonogram.
Myth: Ultrasound results are immediate
Fact: Your MOGA clinician will give you a summary of the results the day after your ultrasound.
When you see ultrasounds in the movies, it always looks like the results arrive right there in the room the second the doctor completes the exam. While it’s true that your doctor can give you a few details like the baby’s sex and health, we can’t give you the entire run-down without taking a bit more time to review the ultrasound.
The good news is that you won’t have to wait long! We’ll confirm all the details in an extensive summary, typically the next day.
Myth: Boy or girl, we’re always right
Fact: There’s a margin of error in any case.
One of our patients’ favorite parts of getting an ultrasound is finding out the baby’s sex. This is an exciting time for everyone involved! Gender sonograms are almost always correct, but your baby’s positioning may affect your ability to get an accurate assessment.
Most gender ultrasounds have a 95-99% accuracy rate when performed between 18 and 20 weeks. These are excellent odds, but remember that the margin of error does exist.
Myth: This procedure is never invasive
Fact: We sometimes require transvaginal ultrasounds to get a better image of a smaller baby.
If you’re picturing the handle on the belly procedure when imagining what your ultrasound will look like, you’re not wrong! However, your MOGA clinician can use two types of ultrasounds to get an accurate picture of your unborn baby.
Aside from a traditional ultrasound, earlier pregnancies may pair better with a transvaginal ultrasound. Because the baby is smaller, a transvaginal ultrasound gives your doctor a closer look at the growing fetus. If you’re wondering which type you’ll need, just call our team!
Myth: Ultrasounds are harmful to the baby
Fact: These procedures are completely safe for you and your baby.
Although it’s a common misconception that ultrasounds could harm an unborn child in the first trimester, there is no evidence to suggest this. In fact, our team recommends that you get an ultrasound during the first trimester to protect yourself and your child.
Early ultrasounds can help your doctor diagnose any existing issues with the pregnancy, so we can intervene if necessary. They also help us know how long you’ve been pregnant, which is how you get your due date! How exciting, mom!
Dedicated to Your Care
At MOGA, we’re here for you and your family. Whether you’re getting your first ultrasound or gearing up for delivery, you can count on our team of experienced providers to give you the best care possible. If you’re ready to schedule your next ultrasound, call our office today!
