First trimester morphology ultrasound
The first trimester ultrasound is one of the most important exams of early pregnancy. Performed between week 11 and week 13, it provides essential information on your baby's early development and the overall health of the pregnancy — for many parents, it's the first chance to see their child.
How is the first trimester ultrasound performed?
The ultrasound is non-invasive and is usually performed transabdominally. The procedure is quick, painless and completely safe, for both mother and baby.
In some cases, when a more detailed view is needed, it may be performed transvaginally, although this is uncommon at this stage of pregnancy.
It allows for an early, detailed assessment of the health of both mother and baby. Early detection of possible changes improves outcomes and allows for advance planning of appropriate monitoring for any complication throughout the pregnancy.
When this ultrasound is performed
This exam takes place within a specific window, between 11 weeks and 13 weeks and 6 days of gestation, because this is the period in which the measurement of nuchal translucency and the assessment of early fetal morphology are most clinically reliable.
If you have questions about your exact gestational age or when to book this exam, our gynecology and obstetrics team can help clarify during a routine appointment.
Benefits of the first trimester ultrasound
Early detection of abnormalities
Helps identify developmental issues or complications at an early stage of pregnancy.
Accurate due date calculation
Provides a precise estimate, essential for monitoring the whole pregnancy.
Peace of mind for parents
Offers the first chance to see the baby and hear their heartbeat.
Aspects assessed during the exam
Confirmation of pregnancy
Checks the viability of the pregnancy and confirms that the embryo is developing inside the uterus.
Determining gestational age
Calculates the expected due date from measurements of the embryo and assesses whether growth is appropriate for the stage of pregnancy.
Number of fetuses
Determines whether it is a single or multiple pregnancy.
Nuchal translucency
Measures the space at the back of the baby's neck, a relevant early indicator for screening chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome.
Heartbeat
From around week 6–7, the baby's heartbeat can already be detected, confirming healthy development.
Placenta and amniotic fluid condition
Assesses the placenta and checks the amount of amniotic fluid, ensuring the baby's environment is suitable for their development.
Common questions about the exam
Why is the first trimester ultrasound performed between weeks 11 and 13?+
This is the window in which the measurement of nuchal translucency and the assessment of the baby's early morphology are most clinically reliable, which is why it is the recommended period for this exam.
Can this ultrasound determine the baby's sex?+
No. At this stage, fetal development does not yet allow for a reliable determination of sex; this information is usually available from the second trimester ultrasound onward.
Is the first trimester ultrasound performed abdominally or vaginally?+
It is usually performed transabdominally. The transvaginal approach is only used in specific cases, when a more detailed image is needed.
Do I need to prepare for the exam in any way?+
No special preparation is required. Our team clarifies any specific instructions when the appointment is booked.
Book your first trimester ultrasound
The first chance to see your baby and hear their heartbeat, with full safety and specialized care.
