Finding out you’re pregnant brings about tons of new questions. Some are big. Some are tiny. One of the most common questions is also one of the simplest:
When can I actually see my baby?
The answer depends on what kind of ultrasound you are having and why you are having it.
When is the first medical ultrasound?
Your healthcare provider determines the timing of your medical ultrasounds based on your pregnancy, medical history, symptoms, and prenatal care plan. Some people receive an ultrasound fairly early in pregnancy. Others may not have one until later in the first trimester or beyond.
There is no single schedule that applies to every pregnancy. If you have questions about when you should receive your first medical ultrasound, your OB, midwife, or other prenatal provider is the right person to ask.
What about an elective first trimester ultrasound?
An elective ultrasound is an opportunity to see your baby outside of a medical appointment. It is designed for the experience itself rather than diagnosis. At Home Sono brings that experience into your living room.
You get comfortable on your own couch. Your partner can sit beside you. Your parents can hover nearby, pretending they are not emotional. Your kids can pile onto a blanket in front of the TV. Then your baby appears on the screen. No fluorescent room. No paper gown. No trying to remember whether you are allowed to take a video. Just your family, your home, and a pretty remarkable little view.
Can you have an ultrasound really early?
You can find plenty of searches for a 4 weeks pregnant ultrasound, 6 week sonogram, or even “can you see anything on an ultrasound at 4 weeks?” The important thing to know is that pregnancy changes quickly during these early weeks, and what can be seen varies considerably. There are several factors involved, including how far along the pregnancy actually is and the type of ultrasound being performed.
This is one reason At Home Sono sessions are not intended to answer medical questions about pregnancy development. If you have concerns about your pregnancy or need confirmation that everything is progressing normally, contact your medical provider.
When does an elective ultrasound become more fun to watch?
For many families, the appeal of a first trimester ultrasound grows as there is simply more baby to see. Early on, everything is extremely small. Then, surprisingly quickly, the image begins looking a little less abstract. You may start recognizing a head, body, arms, legs, or small movements.
You probably will not be critiquing anybody’s nose yet. But you are looking at your baby. And for many parents, that is plenty.
What should I do before my first ultrasound?
If you are preparing for your first medical ultrasound, follow the instructions given by your provider. Preparation can vary depending on the type of exam being performed. For an At Home Sono session, things are considerably more relaxed.
Choose the room where you want everyone to gather. Decide who you want there. Make yourself comfortable. That might mean your partner beside you on the couch. It might mean grandparents in the armchairs. It might mean your toddler is sitting six inches from the television despite repeated requests to move back.
It is your house. That is part of the point.
Is an at home ultrasound a replacement for my first prenatal ultrasound?
No. At Home Sono provides non medical elective ultrasound sessions. Our sessions are not used to diagnose conditions, determine viability, evaluate fetal development, replace prenatal imaging, or provide medical advice.
Continue all scheduled prenatal care and medical ultrasounds with your healthcare provider. We provide something different. A chance to see your baby when there is nowhere else you need to be.
Your first look does not have to feel clinical
Pregnancy comes with plenty of appointments. This one can feel different.
At Home Sono brings an early look at your baby into the place where your baby will eventually come home to. Your couch. Your people. Your television. And one very small guest making their screen debut.
Ready for a baby view from your living room? Explore At Home Sono sessions and choose a time that works for your family.