• Early dating: This scan is performed to confirm the location of the pregnancy, expected delivery date, viability and number of fetuses. 
• Nuchal translucency: This scan is performed in combination with your first-trimester biochemistry blood test and provides risk estimates for specific chromosomal abnormalities including, Down Syndrome, Trisomy 18 and Trisomy 13. The scan will assess the Nuchal thickness of your baby (skin fold on the back of your babies’ neck) combined with a detailed anatomical assessment for structural abnormalities.   
• First-trimester anatomy screening: This scan can be performed in conjunction with Non-Invasive Pre-Natal Testing (NIPT) and typically does not provide risk estimates for chromosomal abnormality, as per industry guidelines. The scan will provide the same anatomical assessment as the Nuchal Translucency scan and also measure the Nuchal thickness. It is recommended that a structural scan such as this be performed in combination with prenatal genetic testing.  
• Second-trimester morphology: This scan evaluates structural anatomy of your baby and measures growth in accordance with previous scans.  The surrounding structures including placenta and cervix are also a key component of this assessment.  
• Third trimester: This scan is primarily used to monitor your baby's growth and well-being, checks amniotic fluid levels, and assesses the fetal position and any previously noted abnormalities. 

Recommended timings for pregnancy ultrasounds are as follows: 

• Early dating: 7 – 10 weeks 
• Nuchal translucency: 12 weeks, 5 days – 13 weeks, 6 days. Medicare cut-off: 13 weeks, 6 days 
• First-trimester anatomy screening: 12 – 16 weeks 
• Second-trimester morphology: >19 weeks (optimal window) 
• Third trimester: >22 weeks 

Preparation for pregnancy ultrasounds vary depending on the scan you are having. 

• Early dating and nuchal translucency: During the 90 minutes before your appointment, empty your bladder and drink one litre of water. Finish drinking 60 minutes before your exam. A full bladder is required to provide an adequate window to visualise your baby. 
• Morphology: During the 90 minutes before your appointment, empty your bladder and drink one litre of water. You should finish drinking 60 minutes before your exam. You can go to the bathroom for up to 30 minutes before your scan. 
• Third trimester: Drink 500mL of water 60 minutes before your scan. A full bladder is required for adequate assessment of the cervix and surrounding structures.  

Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment with your Medicare card and/or concession card, your referral, and any previous scans. If you have a child aged 6 or under, they must be supervised by an adult other than the patient. 

Please inform a staff member if you know your baby’s estimated due date so we can book your scans at the appropriate stages of your pregnancy. Please also notify a staff member if you are carrying more than one baby so a longer appointment can be scheduled. 

Depending on your scan, you may be required to change into a gown. You will be asked to sit or lie down for your scan, and a water-based gel will be applied to the relevant area on your skin. Your sonographer will then place a transducer on your skin to visualise your baby and surrounding structures whilst documenting a series of images. 

Ultrasounds do not use ionising radiation, have no known risks, side effects, or complications, and are considered very safe. They do not harm the mother or the baby. 

A pregnancy ultrasound generally does not require any specific after care. After your scan, you may continue with your normal daily activities, unless advised otherwise by your referring practitioner. 

The cost of your ultrasound depends on several factors, including the type of scan requested. Please advise a staff member if you are a pension or health care cardholder or have any other questions about the cost of your ultrasound. A customer service team member can provide you with more specific information, including any out-of-pocket expenses.