Navigating Pregnancy Ultrasounds: Facts vs Fiction

As an experienced sonographer and founder of International Ultrasound Services, a private pregnancy ultrasound clinic in London, I have helped guide many expectant mothers through this exciting yet often anxiety-inducing time.

Recently, there have been numerous media stories on "scanxiety" and warnings about unnecessary private ultrasounds. As someone with over 15 years of medical ultrasound experience, I would like to provide factual information to help pregnant women navigate ultrasounds during pregnancy.

The Purpose and Safety of Ultrasounds

Ultrasound technology has been used in pregnancy since the 1970s. Research on the safety of ultrasounds shows no conclusive evidence of harm to the baby when used appropriately.

Ultrasounds serve important medical purposes during pregnancy:

Confirming the pregnancy and gestational age
Checking for multiples
Assessing fetal growth and position
Identifying potential abnormalities
Checking the placenta, amniotic fluid, cervix

Many major health organizations note that ultrasounds are safe when used prudently and for medical reasons. There are no set limits on the number of ultrasounds. Risks come from prolonged exposure to high temperatures, so technicians are careful to avoid excessive scanning time.

Common Pregnancy Ultrasounds

There are several standard ultrasounds conducted:

First Trimester: At 8-14 weeks, confirms the pregnancy, dates the gestational age, and screens for issues.
Second Trimester: At 18-22 weeks, evaluates fetal anatomy and screens for birth defects and growth problems.
Third Trimester: At 32+ weeks, checks fetal size and position, the placenta, and amniotic fluid.

Additional ultrasounds may be done if issues or complications arise needing closer monitoring.

Addressing Anxiety with Added Ultrasounds

Many recent media stories have focused on "scanxiety," women's anxiety over their baby's health that leads them to pay for extra private ultrasounds between standard NHS scans.

It is understandable that women who have experienced prior miscarriages or infertility may feel higher anxiety. Carrying a child is an emotionally charged experience. However, anxiety and stress during pregnancy have risks of their own.

As medical professionals, we aim to balance reassuring anxious mothers while avoiding over-scanning without clinical need. Open communication is key—women should feel heard and have their concerns addressed by NHS providers.

If NHS providers confirm the pregnancy is low-risk, additional frequent scans are unlikely to provide more useful information. However, one additional early scan around 16 weeks can sometimes provide helpful peace of mind.

Women should think carefully before embarking on numerous additional private scans of questionable medical benefit. It is key to consider your individual risk factors and needs in consultation with your care provider.

Finding a Reputable Ultrasound Clinic

If looking into a private ultrasound clinic, take steps to find an established, accredited provider:

Verify they are registered with the Care Quality Commission
Check online reviews and see how long they have been operating
Ask about staff qualifications - sonographers should have proper HCPC certification
Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics - you should feel empowered to make your own informed choices
Discuss with your NHS midwife to ensure coordinated care

At our clinic, we aim to provide safe, professional ultrasounds for valid medical reasons. The health of mothers and babies is always our top priority.

Conclusion

Used for appropriate medical indications, ultrasounds are a safe, regulated part of prenatal care when performed by qualified professionals. Women should discuss their specific situation and scan needs with their midwife or doctor. Additional scans can provide reassurance in some cases but should be determined through shared decision-making between the patient and provider. With the right information and support, pregnant women can feel empowered during this amazing journey.