USG Scan - I Trimester Test

An ultrasound imaging (USG) of the 1 st trimester of a pregnancy reveals the development of the sac and subsequently the foetus in the later stages. At this stage, more often than a transabdominal ultrasound, a transvaginal ultrasound is conducted which gives clearer and better images as the ultrasound probe lie closer to the pelvic organs. It is a painless and non-surgical process.

In case it’s a transabdominal USG scan, you might be required to have a full bladder before going in for the test. In case you find it painful, you will be required to empty your bladder enough to ease the pain. A fuller bladder ensures clearer pictures. In case of a transvaginal ultrasound, you don’t need to have a full bladder.

An USG during the first trimester reveals the following: Confirming pregnancy. Assessment or prediction of early pregnancy failures or any pregnancy abnormality such as ectopic pregnancy. Antenatal screening for chromosomal defects such as aneuploidy. Ovarian cysts. Pelvic inflammatory disease.

In case of a transabdominal USG scan:
With a full bladder, you will be required to lie down on the bed and reveal your abdomen.
The technician is going to rub a lubricating gel on the area to be scanned.
A microphone-like object will be used to rub over the gelled area and take images inside your
uterus.
After you’re done, you’ll be required to rub off the gel and get back in normal clothing.
In case of a transvaginal USG scan:
You don’t need a full bladder for this, and after lying down you will be required to expose your
vagina while a towel will be wrapped around your abdomen and other parts remain clothed.
The probe required for the scan is lubricated slightly and inserted for a short distance in the
vagina.
Analgesics or anasthetics are not needed for this scan.