Ultrasound at the beginning of pregnancy

Objectives and Importance of Early Ultrasound

Early pregnancy ultrasound is an important diagnostic tool that confirms conception, locates the fetus, and quickly detects any anomalies. It is usually performed before the 10th week of pregnancy and provides very precise information while being completely safe for both the fetus and the future mother.

The examination is prescribed after a positive pregnancy test and in case of a missed period. A routine ultrasound is generally performed between the 10th and 12th weeks, but in cases of suspected ectopic pregnancy or as part of an IVF program, an earlier diagnosis is recommended.

What an Early Ultrasound Can Detect

An early ultrasound provides the doctor with essential information about the progress of the pregnancy. It allows:

• to confirm the pregnancy by visualizing the gestational sac;
• to determine the exact date of pregnancy based on the size of the embryo;
• to determine the implantation site — within the uterine cavity or outside (ectopic pregnancy);
• to determine the number of embryos;
• to assess the viability of the embryo based on heart rate and growth.

Indications for Early Ultrasound

Ultrasound is mandatory for registering a woman's pregnancy. Particular attention is given to patients suffering from chronic diseases (diabetes, cardiovascular and neurological conditions), as well as those with a history of interrupted pregnancies, miscarriages, or infertility.

In case of emergency, with lower abdominal pain or bleeding, an ultrasound is performed immediately to rule out any complications.

Examination Possibilities by Week

At 3-4 weeks, ultrasound is very rarely performed in a natural pregnancy; it is most often prescribed for vital reasons, for example, in cases of suspected ectopic pregnancy or after IVF. In these cases, it is particularly important to confirm the implantation of the egg.

From 5-6 weeks, the doctor can visualize one or more embryos and record heartbeats. At 7-8 weeks, it is possible to exclude a stopped pregnancy, detect uterine hypertonicity, and signs of a threatened miscarriage. At 9-10 weeks, it is possible to assess not only the fetus but also the condition of the placenta, umbilical cord, walls, and structure of the uterus.

Ultrasound in Natural Cycles and in Cases of IVF

In natural cycles, early ultrasound helps confirm the progress of the pregnancy and eliminate risks at an early stage. However, in the treatment of infertility through assisted reproductive methods, ultrasound diagnosis plays a key role.

After the transfer of the embryo in an IVF In Vitro Fertilization, it is necessary to confirm its implantation and rule out any complications related to hormonal stimulation. Ultrasound allows the exact number of embryos to be determined, to observe their development, and to timely detect hyperstimulation, insufficient endometrial thickness, or other anomalies.

Generally, during IVF, ultrasound is performed dynamically, starting from the 5th or 6th day after transfer, and then at regular intervals until the 10th week.

Where to Have an Early Ultrasound

The reproductive medicine clinic “Natuvitro” offers a full range of professional services to couples considering having a child or who are already expecting one. You can have an early ultrasound, benefit from a pregnancy monitoring program, receive support for conception planning, and undergo IVF.

Modern equipment, a personalized approach, and the experience of our specialists make “Natuvitro” a reliable partner on the path to parenthood. Each couple receives attentive support, based on the latest advancements in reproductive medicine.