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- All you need to know about ultrasound scans
All you need to know about ultrasound scans
Mum Knows Best
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Ditch as much of your housework as possible and don't stress because the house is a mess or there's ironing to do. Your baby will sense you're calm and, with luck, he'll be calm, too. I know it worked for me - Daniel is a chilled-out, happy baby!
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If you have trouble sleeping in pregnancy, read a baby names' book. The monotony of the list means that by the time you reach 'D', you'll be gone!Emily Gale, 31, from London, mum to Madeleine, 2, and 35 weeks pregnant
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If you're set on having a natural birth, read up on visualisation and breathing techniques so you feel strong when the time comes. It really helped me when I was having Honey.SJ Drew, Paignton
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To help beat morning sickness, as soon as you wake up - eat a piece of dry toast.
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Drink ginger tea to beat morning sickness - it really works!Jenny, pregnant with baby no.1
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If you're uncomfortable in bed, or suffer backache, tuck one end of a v-shaped pillow between your knees to get your hips level, put the 'v' under your bump and cuddle the top. It was my midwife's idea - it also cured my insomnia.Isabelle Jacobs, 34, from Edinburgh, mum to Paul, 3 months
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I started getting really bad headaches when I was about 12 weeks pregnant, but forcing myself to drink two litres of water every day really helped.Jennifer Shepherd, London
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I was convinced the TENS machine I used wasn't working because labour still felt very painful. However, it was only when I took it off that I realised it had been effective, as I could feel the difference. It got me through the first few hours until I got in the pool, where my baby was born. Michelle, mum to Sam, 6 weeks
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Before you go out and buy lots of expensive maternity clothes, have a good rummage through your wardrobe. You'll probably be surprised at how much stuff can be adapted or worn a little differently to still fit you!Natalie, mum to Bobby
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How do they work?
Gel is squeezed onto your abdomen and a transducer (or probe) is gently glided over it. The transducer emits and receives high-frequency sound waves, which are transmitted through the uterus and bounce off the baby. The images and sounds are then translated into a picture on a screen.If you're having a scan in very early pregnancy, the sonographer may need to do a 'trans-vaginal' rather than an abdominal scan, to get an image.
The evidence so far is that ultrasounds are safe but it's recommended that its use is 'justified and limited to the minimum necessary'.
The various scans offered will depend on your local health authority. Some might not be offered in your area but will be available privately if you ask.
- Next: The different scans available
More help and advice
- What test should you have?- Advice on finding a midwife
- More info on measuring your baby's growth
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Where to next?
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