Types of obstetric ultrasound we perform

We perform a range of obstetric ultrasound examinations, including:

Early pregnancy ultrasound (below 16 weeks)

• Confirms an intra-uterine pregnancy
• Estimates gestational age and due date
• Checks for heartbeat and number of fetuses

Nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound

NT ultrasound is usually performed between 11 and 14 weeks. It measures the clear space at the back of the baby’s neck and is often part of enhanced first-trimester screening (eFTS) in Ontario. When combined with blood tests, it can help assess the chance of certain chromosome conditions such as trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and trisomy 18.

Second and third trimester obstetric ultrasound (above 16 weeks)

• Assesses fetal growth and anatomy
• Evaluates placenta, amniotic fluid and fetal position
• May include biophysical profile (BPP) and Doppler studies when indicated

When your doctor may order pregnancy ultrasound

Your doctor, midwife or nurse practitioner may refer you for obstetric ultrasound in Toronto to:

• Confirm and date the pregnancy
• Evaluate bleeding or pain in early pregnancy
• Perform NT ultrasound as part of prenatal screening
• Monitor fetal growth and anatomy
• Follow high-risk pregnancies or previous findings

How to prepare for pregnancy ultrasound

Preparation depends on gestational age and exam type. At our clinic, instructions follow the guidelines on our Preparations page.

• For most pregnancy ultrasounds below 16 weeks, you will be asked to arrive with a comfortably full bladder, usually by drinking several glasses of clear liquid about one hour before your appointment and not urinating until after the scan.
• Later pregnancy ultrasounds may not require a full bladder, or only a small amount of fluid.
• For nuchal translucency ultrasound (NT), you are typically asked to drink a moderate amount of clear fluid and to bring any prenatal screening and blood-work forms provided by your health-care provider.

Your exact preparation instructions will be confirmed at the time of booking.

What to expect during pregnancy ultrasound

• You will lie on your back while a clear gel is applied to your abdomen.
• The sonographer moves the transducer over your belly to obtain images of the uterus, placenta and baby.
• In early pregnancy, or when additional detail is needed, a transvaginal ultrasound may be recommended; this provides higher-resolution images of the uterus and cervix and is performed only with your consent.

You may see your baby’s heartbeat and movements during the exam. Our priority is diagnostic quality; any images shared for personal keepsakes are provided when consistent with that goal.