Navigating your pregnancy journey with ultrasound

There’s nothing quite like the moment you see your baby for the first time—tiny, wriggling, heart beating away. Whether it’s your first pregnancy or your fourth, every ultrasound is a milestone. But if you’re feeling a mix of excitement and nerves, you’re not alone.

If you’re searching for a pregnancy ultrasound in Narellan, this guide will walk you through the process—what to expect, how to prepare, and why these scans matter.

What is a pregnancy ultrasound?

A pregnancy ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of your baby in the womb. It’s safe, non-invasive, and key to monitoring foetal development.

Ultrasounds can confirm your due date, check for multiple babies (surprise twins, anyone?), and assess your baby’s growth. They’re also a moment of reassurance—because, let’s be honest, pregnancy can feel like a long stretch of waiting and wondering.

Key ultrasound milestones during pregnancy

Dating scan (6–8 weeks)

This early scan confirms your pregnancy and estimates your due date. At this stage, your baby is the size of a lentil but already growing at an astonishing rate.

Nuchal translucency scan (11–14 weeks)

This scan assesses the risk of chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome. It also gives you a clearer look at your baby—tiny fingers, tiny toes, and maybe even a wave.

Morphology scan (18–22 weeks)

This is the big one. The morphology scan checks your baby’s organs, limbs, and overall development. If you’re hoping to find out the gender, this is your best chance—though some babies prefer to keep it a surprise, no matter how much coaxing you (or the sonographer) do.

Growth scans (28–36 weeks)

Not everyone needs a third-trimester scan, but if your doctor wants to check your baby’s size or position, they may recommend one. It’s also a chance to sneak another look before the big day.

How to prepare for your pregnancy ultrasound

Each scan has slightly different requirements, but here are some general tips:

• Early scans: Drink plenty of water beforehand. A full bladder helps create a window to better view the uterus, making the baby easier to see.
• Later scans: No special preparation needed—just turn up and get comfortable.
• What to wear: Loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your belly.
• What to bring: Your referral, Medicare card, and a support person if you’d like.

What happens during the scan?

At your appointment, you’ll lie back on the exam table while a warm gel is applied to your belly (yes, it’s a bit weird, but it helps transmit sound waves). The sonographer will move a small probe across your skin, capturing images in real-time.

Your doctor might recommend a transvaginal ultrasound for early scans or if clearer images are needed. This provides more detail, especially when bub is still tiny. It’s completely safe and more common than most people realise.

The scan itself takes anywhere from 10 to 60 minutes, depending on the type. You’ll be able to see your baby on the screen and, in many cases, take home some images—perfect for announcing the news or sticking on the fridge.

Understanding your results

Your sonographer will check measurements, heartbeat, and overall development. While they might chat through what they see, we’ll send a formal report to your doctor, who will go over the results in detail.

If you need a follow-up scan, don’t panic—it’s often just to get a clearer look at something your baby wasn’t in the right position for. Babies are unpredictable, even before birth.

FAQs about pregnancy ultrasounds

Book your pregnancy ultrasound in Narellan

Your pregnancy journey is full of firsts—and seeing your baby on screen is one you’ll never forget.

If you’re looking for expert, compassionate care, Xplore Radiology Narellan is here to support you every step of the way. Book your pregnancy ultrasound in Narellan today, and let’s capture a moment you’ll cherish forever.

Book your scan here or check out more about our other Ultrasound services in Narellan.