Pregnancy Ultrasound Scan

Ultrasound can be used to scan pregnancies for a wide variety of diagnostic reasons from 3 weeks after conception until the baby is born. Usually, from 12 weeks on, we can capture a 3D image or a 4D video clip for you if you wish.

Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves beyond the range of human hearing to produce images of your pelvic organs and baby. Sound waves are produced and transmitted into the body by a hand-held transducer (camera). A water based gel is applied to your abdomen and the transducer is moved around into different positions to gain the best pictures. Most of the sound waves are reflected by the tissues back to the transducer where the ultrasound machine converts them into diagnostic images of remarkable clarity.

Ultrasound Machines : CRG has 12 top of the range Ultrasound machines over 4 Christchurch sites. All of these machines are 3D and 4D capable.

 

FAQ

When do I have a scan?
Typically you will have a nuchal translucency scan and an anatomy scan. Some women may also require a scan earlier in the first trimester and / or during the third trimester. There is more information on these examinations listed below.

• First Trimester - < 12 weeks
• Nuchal Translucency - 11 to 13 weeks,  6 days (11 - 13 + 6 weeks)
• Anatomy Scan - 18 to 20 weeks
• Third Trimester - from 24 weeks
• Cardiac Scan - from 19 weeks

Whom to bring with you?
You are welcome to bring your partner or other family members with you to watch the scan. However, please be aware that pregnancy scans are complex and lengthy examinations, requiring  the sonographer to concentrate in order to perform a quality scan.

How long will it take?
We allow 30 minutes for routine pregnancy scans but sometimes the procedure takes a little longer. We allow 1 hour for cardiac scans.

Why do I need a full bladder?
A full bladder provides a nice ultrasound window, it lifts bowel gas away form the uterus and it encourages baby to stretch out so it is easier to image.

How much will it cost? 
The NZ Government subsidises scans performed for authorised indications.  For subsidised scans, CRG performs these at no extra charge to the patient.  Extra charges however will apply if you want images sent to you by email ($10), want a CD of the scan that includes movie and 3D images ($30) or prefer an appointment in the evenings or weekends  ($30).  For scans that fall outside the allowed indications, the patient must pay the full fee.

 

Results

Your scan will be read and reported by a radiologist. A copy of the report will be sent to your midwife and/or doctor.  The images, report and measurement graphs will be stored long term in our digital archives and are available at all times to your midwife and doctor. 

At the time of your scan you will be offered

• a high resolution paper print picture of your baby
• a report page indicating your expected date of delivery (EDD)
• after 24 weeks you will also receive graphical representation of your baby's growth
• for $10 three emailed images
• for $30 a CD containg a selection of images and a video clip. 3D and 4D images will be included when possible.