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:

  1. Estimation of gestational (menstrual) age.
  2. Evaluation of fetal growth.
  3. Vaginal bleeding.
  4. Abdominal or pelvic pain. 
  5. Cervical insufficiency.
  6. Determination of fetal presentation.
  7. Suspected multiple gestation.
  8. Adjunct to amniocentesis or other procedure.
  9. Significant discrepancy between uterine size and clinical dates.
  10. Pelvic mass.
  11. Suspected hydatidiform mole.
  12. Adjunct to cervical cerclage placement.
  13. Suspected ectopic pregnancy.
  14. Suspected fetal death.
  15. Suspected uterine abnormality.
  16. Evaluation of fetal well-being.
  17. Suspected amniotic fluid abnormalities.
  18. Suspected placental abruption.
  19. Adjunct to external cephalic version.
  20. Premature rupture of membranes and/or premature labor.
  21. Abnormal biochemical markers.
  22. Follow-up evaluation of a fetal anomaly.
  23. Follow-up evaluation of placenta location for suspected placenta previa.
  24. History of previous congenital anomaly.
  25. Evaluation of fetal condition in late registrants for prenatal care.
  26. To assess for findings that may increase the risk for aneuploidy.
  27. 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):