Expectant parents prepare for their first prenatal ultrasound, often referred to as the dating scan. This initial appointment offers a highly anticipated first glimpse of the developing pregnancy. The combination of medical necessity and emotional significance creates a powerful experience. Many people approach this scan hoping to bring home a tangible memento of this early stage. Understanding what happens during this medical procedure and what keepsake options are available is a helpful step in preparing for the appointment.
What the First Ultrasound Is For
The primary purpose of the first ultrasound is not to create a baby photo but to serve specific medical and diagnostic functions. This scan is typically performed in the first trimester, often between seven and fourteen weeks of gestation, and is essential for establishing prenatal care. A sonographer uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image, called a sonogram, which does not involve any radiation. The first goal is to confirm the pregnancy is located correctly within the uterus and is not ectopic.
The scan determines the precise gestational age of the fetus by measuring its length from crown to rump (CRL). This measurement provides the most accurate estimation of the due date, which is then used to schedule future tests and monitor development. Detecting a fetal heartbeat is also a standard objective, confirming the pregnancy’s viability. The sonographer will also check for the presence of multiple fetuses, such as twins or triplets, which is an important factor for planning care.
Getting Keepsake Photos and Clinic Policies
Receiving printed images from the first ultrasound is common practice, though it is not a guaranteed part of the medical procedure. These 2D black-and-white printouts, often produced on thermal paper, are given as a courtesy to the parents. The number of pictures provided depends entirely on the specific policy of the hospital or clinic performing the scan. Some facilities offer a few complimentary prints, while others may charge a small administrative fee for additional copies or digital files.
Many modern facilities now offer digital options, such as transferring images to a secure patient portal, a personal USB drive, or burning them onto a CD. The time it takes to receive digital access can vary widely, based on the clinic’s workflow. It is advisable to inquire about the facility’s policy on keepsake images when booking the appointment. Medical organizations caution against ultrasounds performed solely for non-medical, entertainment purposes, though this warning is aimed primarily at commercial “keepsake” clinics.
Why Image Quality Varies
The clarity of the keepsake photo you receive from your first ultrasound is influenced by several technical and physiological factors. The equipment itself plays a role, as the transducer’s frequency range determines the depth of penetration versus the resolution of the image. Higher frequency waves provide better detail but penetrate less deeply into the body. The sonographer’s skill in applying the transducer and adjusting machine settings, like gain and depth, is also a significant factor in optimizing the image.
Physiological factors related to the patient and the fetus also impact the quality of the sonogram. Maternal body habitus, or body type, can affect how the sound waves travel and return, making the image more challenging to capture clearly. The position of the fetus is another major variable, as the baby may be oriented in a way that obscures important anatomical features or makes a clear profile difficult to obtain. Air bubbles in the acoustic gel or between the transducer and the patient’s skin can also create artifacts that degrade the final picture.