Pregnancy Scans

Overview

Pregnancy scans, or prenatal ultrasounds, are vital health checks used to monitor the growth and development of your baby while in the womb. At Sanjeevi Hospital in Sangareddy, we understand that every expectant mother feels a mix of excitement and protectiveness. These scans use high-frequency sound waves to create live images of your baby, placenta, and amniotic fluid without any harmful radiation. In India, prenatal care has evolved significantly, and regular scans are now a standard part of IAP and ICMR guidelines to ensure both mother and child remain healthy. Whether it is confirming your due date or checking the baby's heart, these screenings provide peace of mind. They help in identifying potential complications early, allowing for timely medical intervention. In a country where nutritional challenges and gestational diabetes are common, these diagnostic tools act as a safeguard for a smooth delivery process and a healthy start for your little one.

Symptoms to watch for

• A positive home pregnancy test confirming your new journey
• Occasional mild pelvic cramping as the uterus begins to expand
• The first rhythmic movements of the baby felt in the second trimester
• Changes in the mother’s abdominal size and weight over the months
• Morning sickness or nausea indicating hormonal shifts
• Fatigue or tiredness as the body works hard to support the fetus
• Feeling the baby's hiccups or regular kicks in the later stages
• Breast tenderness and sensitivity common in early pregnancy
• Increased frequency of urination as the baby grows and presses on the bladder

Causes & risk factors

• The need to confirm a viable intrauterine pregnancy after a missed period
• Monitoring the baby due to maternal health factors like high blood pressure
• Evaluating the pregnancy if there is any history of previous complications
• Tracking growth if the mother has gestational diabetes (common in Indian diets)
• Investigating symptoms like unusual pain or unexpected spotting
• Screening for chromosomal or structural development milestones
• Ensuring the placenta is positioned correctly for a safe natural delivery
• Checking amniotic fluid levels to ensure the baby has enough room to move

Diagnosis

• Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVS) for clear imaging in the very early weeks
• Transabdominal Ultrasound using a handheld transducer over the belly
• Doppler Ultrasound to measure blood flow in the baby’s umbilical cord
• Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan to assess early developmental risks
• Level II Anomaly Scan for a detailed head-to-toe check of the baby
• Growth Scans with Bio-physical Profile (BPP) for late-term monitoring
• 3D/4D Imaging for a more detailed view of the baby’s facial features

Treatment options

Prevention & self-care

• Attend all scheduled prenatal scan appointments as recommended by your doctor
• Eat a balanced Indian diet rich in folate, iron, and calcium (like lentils and leafy greens)
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking 2-3 liters of water daily, especially in Sangareddy heat
• Take your prescribed folic acid and prenatal vitamins consistently every day
• Avoid self-medication and consult our experts before taking any over-the-counter drugs
• Maintain a gentle exercise routine like walking, unless advised otherwise by your obstetrician
• Keep track of your baby's kick counts as instructed during your third trimester
• Ensure you get adequate rest and sleep on your left side to improve blood flow to the baby