#  Ultrasounds to See How Your Baby Is Developing 

 

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Ultrasound is a common test to check your baby for any problems. An ultrasound scan uses sound waves to make a picture of your baby that can be seen on a computer monitor. Ultrasounds are used to check:

- Baby’s heartbeat
- Baby’s gestational age (how much baby has developed)
- Growth of your baby’s heart, brain, spine, kidneys, and other organs
- Estimated weight of your baby

## How Do I Get Ready for My Ultrasound?

It’s important to follow these steps to make sure your ultrasound can take clear pictures of your baby:

- Drink **six to eight glasses of water** before your ultrasound.
- **Do not pee** until after your ultrasound is done.

Having a full bladder helps us see your baby more clearly.

You can bring **one support person** with you to your ultrasound.

## How Many Ultrasounds Will I Have?

Most people have two ultrasounds during pregnancy.

The **first ultrasound** happens around **11 to 13 weeks**. It helps confirm your due date, and can check for some genetic problems.

The **second ultrasound** is called a **fetal survey**. It is done around **20 to 24 weeks** and checks the baby’s body and organs. At this stage, you can also find out the baby’s sex if you want to know.

Some people may need **extra ultrasounds**. These may be done to check on the health of your baby, or if you have a health problem. In addition to checking baby’s heartbeat and weight, these extra scans can check the amniotic fluid (the water around the baby).