+ HOW ACCURATE IS AN ULTRASOUND PREGNANCY TEST?

Ultrasounds are often used to confirm and monitor pregnancies, and they are very accurate with the exception of a few uncommon circumstances. An ultrasound can potentially miss a pregnancy if it is located outside of the womb, i.e. an ectopic pregnancy. It can also potentially miss a pregnancy in the very early stages, as the embryo may not yet be large enough to see on the screen.

+ WHEN DURING PREGNANCY IS THE FIRST ULTRASOUND?

The first ultrasound is typically performed on the first obstetrical visit at about 6-8 weeks into a pregnancy. Women with high risk pregnancies will likely have earlier and more frequent ultrasounds.

+ HOW EARLY CAN YOU FIND OUT YOUR BABY’S GENDER WITH AN ULTRASOUND?

It is difficult to ascertain when exactly a doctor will be able to determine a baby’s gender because it is entirely dependent on the position of the baby during the ultrasound. If the baby is in a good viewing position, then a doctor can usually tell the sex of a baby around the 18-20 week mark.

+ ARE PRENATAL ULTRASOUNDS SAFE?

Ultrasounds are a safe an effective tool for doctors and prospective parents to view a baby’s position, movements, and progress. They have been used for decades and there is no evidence that they are harmful when used properly.