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Early Pregnancy

Ultrasound can be useful in evaluating an early pregnancy to reassure the patient that her baby is doing fine.  Its not uncommon during the first trimester to experience some vaginal bleeding.  This can occur because of the implantation of the embryo in the endometrium.  This can cause a subchorionic bleed.  While this can increase the risk of a miscarriage, there is usually a positive outcome.

Vaginal bleeding can also be caused by an ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo implants itself someplace besides the endometrium.  The most common location is the fallopian tube.  This can also be accompanied by pain.

Another reason for pelvic ultrasound during the first trimester is to date the pregnancy.  Ultrasound in the first trimester is very accurate in determining exactly how far along the baby is.

OB ultrasound is a separate topic and is beyond the scope of this website, however a great reference for ultrasound relating to pregnancy is available at ob-ultrasound.net