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Obstetrical Ultrasound (first trimester)

The early obstetrical ultrasound usually occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy (under 14 weeks) and will search the uterus for an embryo which is usually visible with a heartbeat at six weeks gestation. Imaging for this exam is best performed at or after seven weeks. 

The early obstetrical ultrasound may be ordered to date your pregnancy or to confirm the embryo’s size. It may also be requested when you are having vaginal bleeding or pain in the pelvic area, and to evaluate the ovaries. 

If the fetus is in proper position, and time permitting, a 3D or 4D rendering of your baby will be available , to share with family and friends. Please talk with your technologist if you wish pictures.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

  • Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment.

  • Take all prescribed medications as directed. 

  • Wear comfortable clothes. 

  • Drink four (4) 8-ounce glasses of water, (patients under 80 lbs. drink only 2 glasses) completed 1 hour before your appointment. DO NOT empty your bladder until the exam is completed. 

  • If you are too uncomfortable, please relieve your bladder of a small amount of urine. 

  • Once the test has begun, your sonographer will advise you if you can empty your bladder further or totally. We understand that a full bladder can be uncomfortable.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

  • You will be asked to change into a gown. 

  • A warm, non-scented, hypo-allergenic ultrasound gel will be applied to your stomach. 

  • The sonographer will scan your uterus to find and take pictures of your baby. 

  • Your sonographer may have to apply some pressure to accurately measure you baby’s head, abdomen and leg bone. 

  • The length of your exam depends on how much your baby moves and its position. 

  • Please advise the sonographer if you are having trouble holding your bladder at any time during the ultrasound. 

  • If you need to move into a more comfortable position, please let the sonographer know. 

  • While the sonographer may be concentrating on completing your ultrasound in a timely manner, they can discuss your images with you at the end of your exam. 

  • You may bring your partner, family member or friend into the ultrasound room during the exam or at the end, whichever is your preference. Please ensure that young children are supervised during the exam and we can bring them in at the conclusion of your ultrasound.

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

  • We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the information and forward the results to your doctor by the next business day.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

  • This exam is covered under your Alberta Health Care Plan.