Are ultrasounds dangerous?

Question

Are ultrasounds dangerous to the baby? I won’t get another ultrasound til I’m 20 weeks & would like to schedule an outside one in 2-3 weeks. I’ve had several people tell me too much exposure to the baby is harmful. Is this true?

Answer

Yes and no. the current research does show that the heat it produces does seem to heat the foetus and the foetus has been seen appearing to react to this. 
In my country (we have good antenatal care here) it is advised not to scan before 10 weeks or if there is no medical need for a scan because of this research. For this reason it is recommended just to scan at around 12 and 20 weeks. 3D scans are completely advised against as they use greater levels of heat. 
However if there are medical concerns such as a large of fundal height increase or unexplained bleeding then having a scan is proportionate and considered the safest option if a doctor thinks it’s needed. 
To answer your question, nobody is 100% sure but on the research we have, it appears that there may be a small risk. The risk is increased by having extra non-medical ultrasounds or ones done by someone who is not sufficiently qualified. For this reason only the medically necessary ones are recommended. Medically necessary ones are considered relatively safe and a good idea to have.   
You shouldn’t really need any extra scans if your doctor doesn’t have any concerns. I know it can be hard to not know what’s going on but unfortunately that’s just part of pregnancy. If you’re feeling very anxious about the pregnancy then try relaxation techniques or ask your midwife/doctor for some reassurance or help. You will probably get a lot of incorrect information in replies to this question so I suggest you read the advice from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists for the facts and ask your doctor about it if you really want more :) x

Answer

It's fine, but unnecessary to expose your baby to more ultrasounds when you dont need them. The only reason for extra ultrasounds is if there are issues in your pregnancy,  otherwise they are unnecessary.

Answer

No. If they were dangerous, we would never get one.

Answer

I’m getting one every week now cuz the baby needs to be monitored. If it was dangerous they wouldn’t do it

Answer

No, they’re fine.

Answer

Its inconclusive meaning they dont know .. im sure youll be fine tho like another commenter said some high risk mommas get ultrasounds every week

Answer

My dr says they are perfectly safe.

Answer

I mean, one everyday probably isn’t healthy. I have been getting them every 4 weeks since 20 weeks though. You will be fine. 😊

Answer

it's one of those things that doesnt have enough research. it's best to limit them as much as possible but some high risk women need them more often to check if baby is okay. I would stay on the more cautious side and dont do it unless absolutely necessary. I had one at 12 weeks and one at 20 weeks and that was it.

Are ultrasounds dangerous?

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