Pregnancy can be one of the most joyful and delightful experiences of a woman’s life. The feeling of another life growing inside of you is simply amazing and incomparable to anything else. In case you are a first-time mom-to-be, you are bound to feel a bit anxious and concerned about the safety of your baby, as this is a whole new experience for you. Your OB/GYN may ask you to undergo tests and procedures that you have never even heard of before. One of the imaging tests usually recommended during pregnancy is the high resolution ultrasound or the level 2 ultrasound.
A level 2 ultrasound, also known as an ultrasound anatomy scan, is a screening test, in which you and your doctor can get a clear image of your little one. This test can be an amazing experience for you and your partner, as you will be able to get a clear picture of your unborn baby.
Speak to your doctor and clarify any doubts that you may have before the test, so that you can thoroughly enjoy your little one’s first photo shoot!
Most women are advised to go through a level 2 ultrasound at some point of their pregnancies. This detailed ultrasound helps your doctor monitor your baby’s growth and development. This test will also keep your doctor aware of any problems or concerns with the baby and the pregnancy. In case your pregnancy is progressing normally, your OG/GYN will schedule the level 2 ultrasound between the 18th and 22nd week.
During the level 2 ultrasound, the doctor will:
The entire procedure takes around 30 to 45 minutes. If your baby is a cooperative model during the session, the doctor will also be able to tell you the gender. Let the sonographer know if you’d like to keep the baby’s gender a surprise.
The cost of a level 2 ultrasound may vary, depending upon the state and the medical facility you choose for the test. On average, a level 2 ultrasound could cost you anywhere between US$ 200 and US$ 450. In most cases, if a licensed medical practitioner like a registered diagnostic sonographer or a general physician is performing the ultrasound, the cost is likely to be on the lower side. However, if you choose a standalone ultrasound facility that isn’t affiliated to a hospital, you will probably pay around US$ 300 to US$ 450.
Your medical insurance may cover a part of the level 2 ultrasound cost, but only if the procedure is regarded as a medical necessity. Just to be sure, have a word with your insurance company and check if your plan includes the level 2 ultrasound costs.
Several women wonder if they need to go through a level-2 ultrasound, especially if there were no problems detected in the level 1 ultrasound. However, most healthcare providers advise all women to undergo this test in the second trimester of pregnancy. The main objective of the level 2 ultrasound is to detect any fetal abnormalities. This test will alert your doctor to any concerns with the pregnancy, so that you can address the problem right away. Moreover, you can treat this test as an excellent way to bond with your little one. Most parents feel closer to their babies after getting their first look at them.
Ultrasounds are generally regarded as being fairly safe during pregnancy, as there have been no significant risks associated with the procedure. However, if you are worried that a level 2 ultrasound can harm your baby in any way, it is important for you to speak to your doctor right away.
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