Reassurance Scans
What are Fetal Reassurance Scans?
Fetal reassurance scans, also known as fetal wellbeing scans, are ultrasounds performed during pregnancy to check on the health and development of the baby. These scans are not part of routine prenatal care, but they can provide peace of mind for expectant parents who may be worried about their baby’s well-being.
What Can Fetal Reassurance Scans Detect?
During a fetal reassurance scan, the sonographer will check on several aspects of the baby’s development, including:
First Trimester
During the first trimester, fetal reassurance scans can detect:
- Viability: The sonographer will confirm that the pregnancy is viable and that there is a fetal heartbeat.
- Gestational Age: The sonographer will measure the size of the embryo to determine the gestational age.
- Number of Embryos: The sonographer will check to see if there is more than one embryo present.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: The sonographer will check to ensure that the pregnancy is not ectopic, meaning the fertilized egg has implanted outside of the uterus.
Second and Third Trimester
During the second and third trimester, fetal reassurance scans can detect:
- Growth: The sonographer will measure the baby’s head, abdomen, and thigh bone to ensure that the baby is growing at a normal rate.
- Heartbeat: The sonographer will check the baby’s heartbeat to make sure it is strong and regular.
- Movement: The sonographer will check to see if the baby is moving and stretching normally.
- Amniotic Fluid: The sonographer will measure the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby to ensure that it is at a healthy level.
- Placenta: The sonographer will check the position and health of the placenta.
- In addition to these checks, the sonographer may also be able to detect any physical abnormalities or potential issues with the baby’s organs.
When are Fetal Reassurance Scans Typically Performed?
Fetal reassurance scans can be performed at any time during pregnancy, but they are typically performed in the first trimester at around 8-12 weeks and between 24 and 34 weeks of pregnancy (second and third trimester). This is because, during the first trimester, the baby is still small enough to get a clear picture of their development, but large enough to see important structures. During the second and third trimester, the baby is large enough at this stage to get a clear picture of their development, but not so large that it is difficult to see everything.
How to Self-Refer for a Fetal Reassurance Scan
In some cases, expectant parents may want to self-refer for a fetal reassurance scan. This means that they can schedule a scan without a referral from their healthcare provider. Self-referral is often available at private ultrasound clinics. However, it is important to note that the cost of a fetal reassurance scan may not be covered by insurance if it is not medically necessary.
If you are interested in self-referring for a fetal reassurance scan, research ultrasound clinics in your area and make sure that they offer this service. You can also speak with your healthcare provider to get a recommendation for a reputable clinic.
Fetal reassurance scans can provide expectant parents with peace of mind during a stressful time. These scans can detect potential issues with the baby’s development and provide valuable information to healthcare providers. If you are interested in a fetal reassurance scan, talk to your healthcare provider to see if it is an option for you. Remember, the most important thing is to attend all of your scheduled prenatal appointments and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for a healthy pregnancy. If you choose to self-refer for a scan, make sure to research reputable ultrasound clinics in your area.