Is it harmful for the fetus in the second trimester?

Every pregnant woman wants to know whether the ultrasound is harmful to the fetus. This question does not leave her, because the first instinct is to protect the child from negative impact. In fact, everything is not as simple as it seems at first glance.

Is it harmful for the fetus?

Modern devices for ultrasound are the result of scientific progress. The action of ultrasonic waves is much softer than X-rays. The first devices were quite imperfect, so it was not recommended to use them more often than twice during the entire pregnancy. Modern technology allows you to perform ultrasound at least every day. The absence of harmful influence of ultrasonic waves is proved by specialists all over the world. However, it is impossible to unequivocally answer the question whether the ultrasound is harmful to the fetus. Some scientists say that in the process of intrauterine development of the baby, its sensitivity to sound frequencies can vary. His hearing organs are just forming, and he is in the water. It is quite logical that at some stages of development of the baby ultrasound can deliver him some discomfort. Perhaps, for an adult in the external environment, such a procedure is not noticeable, but the fetus is not yet adapted and is subject to a certain risk. Therefore, it is possible to answer the question whether the ultrasound is harmful to the fetus, thus: if it is done often, it may be harmful, and if you go through only three or four procedures for pregnancy, it will not cause serious violations.

What is an ultrasound examination?

The purpose of the check is to determine whether the baby is developing normally. This study allows you to identify possible violations in the physical development of the child. Diagnosis of pathology at an early stage allows you to quickly resort to therapy and treatment of the disease. Of course, it happens that the developing fetus has strong disabilities, with consequences such as lifelong disability. In this case, parents are given the choice: to give birth to a sick incompetent child or to terminate a pregnancy.

Parameters measured by ultrasound

During the research, such indicators as fetal heart rate will be measured, and all organs will be examined to monitor their correct development.

1. Palpitation of the fetus on ultrasound can determine the presence or absence of chromosomal pathology. In early terms, this indicator does not really matter, but in the second trimester of pregnancy, the knowledge of heart rate makes it possible to determine the state of the fetus. If a child feels not very comfortable inside the womb, it will affect the heart rhythm. There are cases when it is necessary to prescribe a premature cesarean section in order to save the life of the baby.

2. Development of the digestive system. The ultrasound of the fetus (20 weeks) allows to evaluate the development of each organ. It is necessary to know whether the intestines and digestive organs are developing correctly . Without this system or with its incorrect development the baby can be born unviable.

3. Light and respiratory system. At the stage of development at 20 weeks, the lungs of the fetus must already pass the first stage of formation. If this organ is not revealed at birth, the child will not be able to breathe. Knowledge of possible developmental disabilities makes it possible to be prepared for the upcoming difficulties. Doctors will know how to behave during childbirth and, without losing extra seconds, deliver the newborn to the incubator or, if necessary, take it to the operation. This will enable the child to survive.