Conceived Dec 3, 1997
Due August 27, 1998
Labor August 29-31
Born August 31, 1998

How did you manage to get an ultrasound so early?

From what I understand, some doctors will do an ultrasound at the first prenatal visit (around 8-10 weeks). Others will wait until 18-22 weeks before they do one. It depends on their procedure and the woman's anxiety level. I'm not certain, but it might also depend on what kind of insurance you have since the procedure is a bit expensive - my quickie at 7 weeks was $335 before insurance (which fortunately, covered all of it)!

My doctor, however, is treating my pregnancy as potentially high-risk because I've had at least 1 previous miscarriage. In addition, my progesterone level was slightly questionable, which may have led him to want more definite information about how the baby was doing. But what it comes down to is that he's willing to do a quick ultrasound as often as I need the reassurance during this first trimester. Notice that I also had one at 9 weeks, which he used to confirm the estimated due date.

Some are concerned about the potential risks of doing ultrasounds so often. There are, however, no indications that ultrasounds in any way harm the mother or baby. That doesn't necessarily mean there are no dangers - just no known ones. To be safe, the doctor has done only quick ultrasounds, just to be sure there's a heartbeat and to check the baby's size.

My doctor seems to be doing all he can to make me feel more confident and comfortable with the pregnancy and alleviate my fears of losing the baby. To be honest, those fears come and go, and I'm grateful to have a doctor who takes my feelings and concerns seriously.

So far this is the most common question I've received. I will add more to this page as I receive more questions.