How safe is this method of screening?


Performed by well trained staff in accredited facilities ultrasound is considered safe. Accreditation is the standard set by the medical institution of the country confirming the safe use of the machinery by well trained technicians. However safe, ultrasounds should only be scheduled when medically required as most healthy normal pregnancies do not require it. Typically each pregnancy will need 2 ultrasounds: one in the early trimester to confirm pregnancy and to mark the gestational age of the baby and the second will be the anomaly scan performed between weeks 18-20 to check on fetal development. Being non-invasive the risk and side effects are not known especially when used properly. However the effects of repeated ultrasound exposures on the fetus are not fully established and therefore it is recommended that an ultrasound should only be performed when medically necessary.