Can Fetal Ultrasound Harm the Baby? Expert Tells

Pregnancy is a rollercoaster ride of excitement, anticipation, and equal amounts of anxiety. One of the many normal tests pregnant women go through is the fetal ultrasound, which remains one of the most comforting, giving parents their first sight of the baby developing in the womb. But despite how common it has become, parents wonder if ultrasounds done too often will hurt the baby. Are these worries unfounded or merely myths? Read ahead to know what the experts have to say.

What Is a Fetal Ultrasound and Why Is It Done?

Fetal ultrasound is a harmless, non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the unborn baby, placenta, and amniotic fluid. Doctors use it to track growth, find abnormalities, confirm due dates, and check the baby's position and movements. Most women have two or three scans during pregnancy, one early in the first trimester and one detailed anomaly scan at about 18 to 22 weeks.

Dr Vikram Vora, Medical Director and Chief Health Officer (Indian Subcontinent), International SOS said, "Ultrasound technology has come a long way over decades and is totally safe if used for medical reasons. It's not ionising radiation-based like X-rays, so one does not have to worry about any exposure to radiation from the mother or fetus."

Also Read: Post-Diwali Skin Detox Plan: Dermatologist Shares Tips To Restore Skin Health After Festive Season

Can Ultrasounds Harm the Fetus?

As per medical opinion, there is no reason known to harm the baby when correctly done. The ultrasound sound waves are non-harmful and won't heat up tissues or damage them. Diagnostic ultrasounds, as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) both affirm, are safe during pregnancy when done by experienced professionals.

But Dr Vora advised against misuse. "Though ultrasounds are safe, excessive or unnecessary scans without a medical need are not recommended. Just like any medical device, it should be used cautiously and only when medically necessary."

Rise of Non-Medical or Keepsake Ultrasounds

Since technology has become more affordable, parents are lured by the prospect of 3D or 4D ultrasounds for keepsake pictures or movies. This is strongly discouraged by experts.

Dr Vora pointed out, "Ultrasounds for fun, not under medical observation, can expose the fetus to extended sound. It's better avoided unless your healthcare provider says otherwise."

Also Read: How To Absorb Supplements Better? Expert Shares The Trick

Benefits Vs Risks of Pregnancy Ultrasounds

Ultrasound is critically important in guaranteeing healthy delivery and safe pregnancies. Ultrasound detects complications like ectopic pregnancy, placental problems, growth restriction, or congenital defects early on, enabling prompt intervention. For most parents, ultrasounds are also psychologically comforting, providing a tangible link with the unborn baby.

Bottomline

When done for medical purposes by trained doctors, fetal ultrasounds are safe, necessary, and worth their weight in gold when it comes to tracking pregnancy health. However experts suggest that moderation is the key, follow your doctor's guidance and don't get unnecessary scans for non-medical reasons.