The Role of Ultrasound in Early Pregnancy: What to Expect

The Role of Ultrasound in Early Pregnancy: What to Expect

What Is an Early Pregnancy Ultrasound?

An early pregnancy ultrasound typically refers to scans performed during the first trimester (weeks 6 to 13). These scans are used to:

• Confirm pregnancy
• Determine gestational age
• Check for a heartbeat
• Evaluate for ectopic or molar pregnancies
• Identify multiple gestations
• Assess uterine and adnexal structures



Ultrasounds during this period can be performed transabdominally or transvaginally, depending on gestational age and clinical needs.

When Is the First Ultrasound Done?

The first ultrasound is usually performed between 6 and 9 weeks gestation. However, earlier scans may be ordered in specific cases, such as:

• History of miscarriage
• Symptoms of pain or bleeding
• Use of fertility treatments (IUI, IVF)
• Uncertainty of last menstrual period (LMP)



Most first-trimester ultrasounds use transvaginal probes to obtain clear, high-resolution images in early development.

Preferred Medical offers ultrasound systems with advanced endovaginal transducers, like the Philips Affiniti 70 and Mindray DC-90, to support confident first-trimester diagnosis.

What Can Be Seen on an Early Ultrasound?

Clinical Benefits of Early Pregnancy Ultrasound

1. Confirming Intrauterine Pregnancy

An early ultrasound rules out ectopic pregnancy, which can be life-threatening if undetected. Identifying a gestational sac within the uterus is often the first milestone in confirming a normal pregnancy.

2. Estimating Gestational Age

Dating the pregnancy using crown-rump length (CRL) provides a highly accurate estimate of due date—often more reliable than LMP-based dating.

3. Detecting Multiple Gestations

Ultrasound reveals if the patient is carrying twins or higher-order multiples, and whether the fetuses share a placenta (chorionicity), which influences prenatal care.

4. Assessing Fetal Viability

By around 6 weeks, a heartbeat can usually be detected. The presence (or absence) of cardiac activity can help diagnose early pregnancy loss or determine follow-up care.

5. Diagnosing Early Complications

Ultrasound helps detect:

• Blighted ovum (anembryonic pregnancy)
• Subchorionic hemorrhage
• Molar pregnancy
• Miscarriage indicators

What Patients Should Expect During the Scan

Many first-time mothers wonder what to expect at an early scan. Here's a typical breakdown:

• Preparation: A full bladder may be requested for a transabdominal scan. If using a transvaginal probe, a patient may be asked to empty their bladder.
• Scan Duration: About 15–30 minutes depending on clarity and positioning.
• Comfort Level: Transvaginal scans may cause mild discomfort but should not be painful.
• Results: In most cases, providers give preliminary findings during or immediately after the scan.

Modern ultrasound systems, such as the Alpinion X-CUBE i9, deliver clear, fast results with automated measurements and easy reporting—enhancing the clinical experience for both providers and patients.

Equipment Considerations for First Trimester Imaging

 High-Resolution Imaging

Early fetal structures are tiny. Systems like the Philips Epiq Elite and Mindray DC-90 offer high-frequency probes with enhanced contrast resolution to capture subtle details.

 Fast Boot-Up and Workflow

Efficiency is crucial for busy OB/GYN clinics. Look for systems with quick boot times, custom presets, and auto-measure tools for fetal biometry, CRL, and gestational sac sizing.

 Specialized OB Tools

Preferred Medical offers systems with:

• Smart OB (Mindray): Auto fetal measurement tools
• aReveal A.I. (Philips): Automated structure recognition
• Smart Face & iLive: 3D visualization enhancements even in early pregnancy

Beyond Pregnancy: Pelvic and Uterine Assessment

Early pregnancy scans also provide a window into maternal health. Providers can use this opportunity to assess:

• Fibroids or polyps
• Congenital uterine anomalies
• Cervical length (early risk for preterm labor)
• Ovarian cysts or masses



Ultrasound systems with elastography or 3D reconstruction—like the Affiniti 70—can provide deeper insight into gynecologic health alongside pregnancy assessments.

FAQs About Early Pregnancy Ultrasound

How Preferred Medical Supports First Trimester Imaging

At Preferred Medical, we know that first-trimester ultrasound is a critical time for both providers and patients. That’s why we offer OB/GYN ultrasound systems designed to:

• Deliver unmatched clarity in early imaging
• Support fast, reliable fetal assessments
• Enhance clinical decision-making with automation
• Improve workflow and documentation efficiency



Our systems from Philips, Mindray, and Alpinion come with a five-year warranty, in-depth training, and full clinical support.

Final Thoughts

Ultrasound in early pregnancy provides more than just a first glimpse of life—it gives reassurance, answers, and guidance when patients need it most. Whether confirming a heartbeat or detecting complications early, the quality of your ultrasound system directly impacts the quality of care.

With Preferred Medical’s trusted ultrasound solutions, you can offer clarity, confidence, and compassion from the very first scan.

 Ready to upgrade your first-trimester imaging capabilities? Let Preferred Medical help you find the right solution—backed by 35+ years of experience, premium support, and a commitment to your success.

📞 Call (866) 492-1313 or connect with a women’s health imaging consultant today.