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Ganesh Talkies, Kolkata
Ganesh Talkies, Kolkata
Learn why early pregnancy scans are crucial for both the mother’s and baby’s health. Understand their purpose, timing, and benefits from the insights of a reputed gynecologist, ensuring a safe and confident start to motherhood.
The news of pregnancy often brings a beautiful mix of excitement, curiosity, and concern. For many expecting mothers, the journey begins with questions—Is my baby healthy? Is the pregnancy progressing normally? What should I do next?
That’s where early pregnancy scans play a vital role. These initial ultrasounds provide a detailed look into the early stages of pregnancy, confirming both the baby’s presence and well-being. Far beyond a medical procedure, they are moments of reassurance, helping expectant parents take their first confident step toward a healthy journey ahead.
An early scan—usually conducted between 6 to 10 weeks of pregnancy—is designed to gather essential information about the developing embryo and ensure that everything is progressing as expected.
The main purposes include:
In simple terms, these scans are like the foundation of your pregnancy care plan—ensuring that your journey begins on the right track.
During early pregnancy, the body undergoes dramatic changes within just a few weeks. Hormones surge, tissues expand, and new life starts forming rapidly. However, not all these changes can be detected through symptoms alone.
That’s why sonographic imaging becomes so important—it offers a visual confirmation of what’s happening inside.
Both types are safe, non-invasive, and essential for understanding the health of the mother and baby during this delicate stage.
Here’s why every expecting mother should prioritize early pregnancy scans:
Sometimes, pregnancy tests can show positive results even when the fertilized egg doesn’t develop properly. Early scans help confirm whether the pregnancy is viable by detecting a heartbeat and checking for normal development.
In some rare cases, the embryo may implant outside the uterus—commonly in a fallopian tube—causing an ectopic pregnancy. Such cases require immediate medical attention. Early scans detect these conditions promptly, preventing complications.
Many women are uncertain about the exact date of conception due to irregular cycles. Scans can estimate the gestational age with remarkable accuracy, helping your doctor predict a realistic due date and monitor growth milestones effectively.
An early scan identifies if you’re expecting twins or more, allowing timely planning for nutrition, rest, and prenatal care—factors that are essential in multiple pregnancies.
Pregnancy brings joy but also anxiety. Seeing the tiny flicker of your baby’s heartbeat during the first scan provides immense reassurance and emotional connection for parents.
After confirming a healthy pregnancy, your doctor may guide you on dietary needs, supplements (like folic acid), and physical activity to support the baby’s development from day one.
While every pregnancy is unique, most experts recommend the first scan between 6 to 8 weeks after your last menstrual period (LMP).
Why this timeline works best:
If you experience severe pain, spotting, or unusual symptoms earlier, a scan may be advised sooner to ensure safety.
It’s natural to feel a little nervous before your first scan, but preparation can make the process smoother and more comfortable.
Here’s what you can do:
Remember, this is a positive step toward understanding your baby’s progress and ensuring a safe pregnancy journey.
Many first-time mothers worry about the safety or necessity of early scans. Let’s clarify a few misconceptions:
Beyond medical accuracy, early pregnancy scans offer emotional comfort. Pregnancy can be an anxious time, especially for those who have faced previous complications or fertility challenges.
Such emotional reassurance plays a vital role in maternal wellbeing—a crucial aspect of holistic prenatal care.
While modern technology offers precise imaging, the interpretation of scan results is where experience truly matters. Consulting a qualified professional—such as the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata—ensures that findings are accurately explained and personalized care plans are developed accordingly.
Experts can detect subtle signs of early complications, provide nutritional guidance, and help expectant mothers navigate both physical and emotional aspects of early pregnancy.
1. How early can an ultrasound detect pregnancy?
Pregnancy can typically be detected on an ultrasound around 5 to 6 weeks after your last period.
2. What if no heartbeat is seen during my first scan?
If it’s too early, your doctor may ask you to return in 7–10 days for a repeat scan to confirm viability.
3. How long does an early pregnancy scan take?
Usually 10–15 minutes. However, it may take longer if your doctor needs a detailed view.
4. Is a transvaginal scan painful?
Not usually. It may feel slightly uncomfortable but shouldn’t cause pain. It’s a safe, quick, and precise method.
5. Can early scans determine the baby’s gender?
No. Gender identification is not possible during early pregnancy scans and is restricted by medical regulations in India.
Pregnancy is one of life’s most beautiful journeys, and every stage deserves care, knowledge, and emotional support. Early pregnancy scans serve as the first milestone—ensuring that the beginning of this journey is safe and informed.
They not only detect potential issues early but also help parents build confidence in their baby’s wellbeing. When guided by skilled professionals like Dr. Megha Khanna, expectant mothers receive the perfect blend of medical expertise and compassionate care.
Early insights lead to stronger outcomes, both for mother and baby—reminding us that the best beginnings come from awareness, trust, and timely attention.
