The first ultrasound, also known as a sonogram, will be taken to confirm the pregnancy, generally around six to eight weeks. The test will be taken transvaginally and is painless. The test entails listening for the baby’s heartbeat and estimating the age by measuring its length, which will provide a more accurate picture of the due date. The physician will also be able to tell if the pregnancy involves multiples and will rule out an ectopic pregnancy.

The second trimester ultrasound generally takes place between 18 to 20 weeks of pregnancy. It is performed to ensure the baby’s organs are developing properly and is the most thorough checkup before the baby is born. The placenta will be examined and the amniotic fluid level will be measured. The physician will also check for any birth defects. Additionally, if you want to learn the sex of your baby, the tech will be able to reveal that detail with more than 95 percent accuracy.