Early Pregnancy Scan

How is the early pregnancy ultrasound performed, and how do I prepare? 
An early pregnancy ultrasound is typically done in your doctor's office. The doctor or sonographer may start the examination using an abdominal ultrasound probe applied to your lower belly. The examiner will apply a layer of ultrasound gel to your skin, which helps the sound waves travel from the probe into your body. In many cases, a transvaginal probe may be needed to better see the embryo/fetus and the pregnancy, in which case the probe, covered by a sterile cover and with a bit of gel, will be inserted gently into the vagina. This brings the probe closer to the pregnancy and allows the sonographer to visualize the embryo/fetus and gestational sac, as well as your uterus (womb) and cervix, in an optimal fashion. Be prepared for this to be done when you are scheduled for your early pregnancy ultrasound. No other special preparation is needed to have your early pregnancy ultrasound.

What are the goals of the Early Pregnancy Ultrasound? 
Early pregnancy ultrasound has several goals, including:

• Verify that the pregnancy is present
• Determine the gestational age
• Determine the number of embryos/fetuses
• Check that the pregnancy is developing well
• Check for abnormalities including the abnormal location of the pregnancy (i.e. to rule out ectopic pregnancy, a complication where the implantation site is outside the uterus) or abnormal appearance of the embryo/fetus (i.e. certain birth defects that can be identified very early)