Abdominal ultrasound during pregnancy

When should an ultrasound scan of the abdomen be carried out during pregnancy?

The ultrasound examination of the abdomen is a generally accessible examination. It is usually ordered by the doctor as a check-up or if there are certain indications. During pregnancy, an abdominal ultrasound scan is performed if the expectant mother complains of complaints such as abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhoea. It is also ordered if the pregnant woman has pain in the lumbar region, problems urinating or a fever. An abdominal ultrasound is a diagnostic examination, for example if appendicitis is suspected, but also for kidney stones. An ultrasound scan of the abdomen during pregnancy can be helpful in cases of gallbladder disease.

Is abdominal ultrasound safe during pregnancy?

An ultrasound scan during pregnancy is a safe examination for both the expectant mother and the developing baby. Like foetal ultrasound, abdominal ultrasound can also be carried out safely if indicated. Abdominal ultrasound is a much safer examination during pregnancy than a CT scan, for example. If the radiologist has doubts about the diagnosis, he or she may recommend a more thorough examination, whereby an MRI scan is safe for pregnant women.

How do you prepare for an ultrasound scan during pregnancy?

No special preparation is required for an abdominal ultrasound during pregnancy. This examination can be technically more difficult, as the uterus enlarges with the baby and the anatomy and position of the organs in the expectant mother's body is changed as a result. If bladder emptying disorders are suspected, it is advisable to fill the bladder for the ultrasound examination of the abdomen. It is also advisable to fast for several hours before the ultrasound examination in order to obtain a better view.

What is detected during an ultrasound scan of the abdomen during pregnancy?

An ultrasound scan of the abdomen during pregnancy is used to detect diseases of the liver, gallbladder, appendix, kidneys or bladder. It is a quick and safe examination that makes it much easier than laboratory tests alone to make an accurate diagnosis, including for abdominal pain during pregnancy.