The following is a listing of indications for the anatomic ultrasound. An ultrasound can be of benefit in many situations in the second and third trimesters, including but not limited to the following circumstances:
- Estimation of gestational (menstrual) age.
- Evaluation of fetal growth.
- Vaginal bleeding.
- Abdominal or pelvic pain.
- Cervical insufficiency.
- Determination of fetal presentation.
- Suspected multiple gestation.
- Adjunct to amniocentesis or other procedure.
- Significant discrepancy between uterine size and clinical dates.
- Pelvic mass.
- Suspected hydatidiform mole.
- Adjunct to cervical cerclage placement.
- Suspected ectopic pregnancy.
- Suspected fetal death.
- Suspected uterine abnormality.
- Evaluation of fetal well-being.
- Suspected amniotic fluid abnormalities.
- Suspected placental abruption.
- Adjunct to external cephalic version.
- Premature rupture of membranes and/or premature labor.
- Abnormal biochemical markers.
- Follow-up evaluation of a fetal anomaly.
- Follow-up evaluation of placenta location for suspected placenta previa.
- History of previous congenital anomaly.
- Evaluation of fetal condition in late registrants for prenatal care.
- To assess for findings that may increase the risk for aneuploidy.
- Screening for fetal anomalies.
In certain clinical circumstances, a more detailed examination of fetal anatomy may be indicated.
(adapted from National Institutes of Health publication 84-667, 1984):