Obstetric ultrasound and obstetric Doppler ultrasound
Pregnancy ultrasound (obstetric ultrasound) in Casablanca
A pregnancy ultrasound (obstetric ultrasound) monitors the pregnancy using ultrasound, without X-rays. Depending on the stage, it checks how far along the pregnancy is, the number of babies, their growth, the placenta and the amniotic fluid. It is used throughout pregnancy, on dates set by your doctor or midwife, and can be repeated without risk. Doppler, added if needed, measures blood flow between the mother and the baby. The detailed study of the baby's anatomy is a separate exam, the anatomy scan.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
Usually allow 15 to 30 minutes, a little longer for twins.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
GE & Hitachi
Contact the center
This exam is booked by phone or WhatsApp.
When is this exam needed?
- Dating and checking early pregnancy.
- Bleeding or pain during pregnancy.
- Twins, high blood pressure or baby's growth to be monitored, with Doppler.
- Checking the position of the baby and the placenta in late pregnancy.
- Checking the amount of amniotic fluid.
How the exam is done
You lie on your back with your belly uncovered, and the probe glides over the gel spread on your abdomen. In early pregnancy, the transvaginal approach often gives clearer images: it is explained and offered, never imposed, and is done only with your consent.
The doctor first checks the presence and viability of the baby, then takes measurements suited to the stage of pregnancy: the baby's length in early pregnancy, and later the head circumference, abdomen and femur. They then look at the placenta and the amount of fluid. For the transvaginal approach, you first empty your bladder, then a thin, covered probe is gently inserted. At the end, you get dressed and go back to your normal activities.
Preparation
- In early pregnancy, a moderately full bladder may be requested, depending on the instructions you receive.
- Keep in mind the date of your last period, which is useful for checking how far along you are.
- Choose a top with pants or a skirt, more practical than a dress for uncovering your belly.
Fasting
There is no need to fast. You eat and drink as usual.
Contrast injection
No injection is given, even for the Doppler.
Contraindications and precautions
- No contraindication: ultrasound can be repeated during pregnancy.
- Heavy bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid: seek emergency care.
- Baby's movements clearly reduced: contact your doctor or the maternity unit without delay.
- Transvaginal approach: tell us if you have a latex allergy; a suitable probe cover is then used.
Documents to bring
- Prescription from the doctor or midwife
- Date of your last period or due date
- Ultrasounds and tests already done during the pregnancy
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
Price and insurance coverage
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
How many ultrasounds are done during pregnancy?
Most often one per trimester, more if monitoring is needed. The dates are set by your doctor or midwife.
Will we find out the baby's sex?
That is not the purpose of the exam, and it is not always visible, depending on the stage and the baby's position. Say so if you would rather not know.
What is obstetric Doppler used for?
It measures blood flow in the umbilical cord, the uterus or certain blood vessels of the baby, to monitor growth restriction or high blood pressure in the mother.
Is the transvaginal approach risky?
No. The probe stays in the vagina, without entering the uterus, and does not increase the risk of miscarriage.
What is the first-trimester ultrasound for?
It checks that the pregnancy is developing properly inside the uterus, counts the babies and measures the baby to date the pregnancy precisely. Depending on the prescription, it also contributes, together with the blood test, to screening for certain anomalies.
Can an ultrasound be done at any point in pregnancy?
Yes. Ultrasound can be used at any stage. Apart from the scheduled exams, an ultrasound is done with a prescription if a symptom or monitoring justifies it.