After reading the article on the other post (3D/4D ultrasounds), mentioned by Trish (FirstTimeMom814), I can't help but be somewhat scared of ultrasounds. My OB has told us that there is no conclusive evidence that U/S causes problems, but that there is also no definite evidence that it WON'T cause health issues. He normally only does routine ultrasounds, and even my peri doesn't do the 3D ones. Well, because we have twins sharing a placenta, from here on out we will have ultrasounds at least every two weeks. Right now we're having them weekly (switching from peri to OB). The one at the OB is pretty quick and he mainly checks fluid levels. Because of my past twin pregnancy, it is reassuring to have them this often, but I'm just worried about how safe it is. What are your opinions, experience, and do you have any more information? Thanks.
After reading the article on the other post (3D/4D ultrasounds), mentioned by Trish (FirstTimeMom814), I can't help but be somewhat scared of ultrasounds. My OB has told us that there is no conclusive evidence that U/S causes problems, but that there is also no definite evidence that it WON'T cause health issues. He normally only does routine ultrasounds, and even my peri doesn't do the 3D ones. Well, because we have twins sharing a placenta, from here on out we will have ultrasounds at least every two weeks. Right now we're having them weekly (switching from peri to OB). The one at the OB is pretty quick and he mainly checks fluid levels. Because of my past twin pregnancy, it is reassuring to have them this often, but I'm just worried about how safe it is. What are your opinions, experience, and do you have any more information? Thanks.
I've read the studies about u/s causing problems in lab animals, and it's enough to make me avoid extra u/s like the "for fun" 3D/4D ones. For me, the important thing to keep in mind has been the balance between what potential damage could be caused vs. what medical information is being gained. The risk of problems with u/s is most likely very low, and as long as I'm not having excessive u/s with no purpose I feel OK with it.
I think that having them to make sure things are going well from a medical standpoint is fine. The risks of the u/s to the babies are outweighed by making sure that things are going well especially given your previous history. I had them every month while I was pregnant.
I had one at 8 weeks, 2 at 12 wks, and one every two weeks after that...but half were quick heartbeat/position checks. I am worried enough to not do a home doppler (which uses ultrasonic waves I believe)and not to do a 3d/4d for fun kind of deal, but I don't have much choice. I told my doctor it was a concern so she said she will make them as short as possible. Sometimes you have to have them, esp. if you are worried about TTTS like I know you are. Since we don't have much choice, I say let the doctor know how you feel and try to be at peace with the fact that you are going to have more than the average person because you are carrying twins. ALSO...those studies were not done on humans AND you need to remember that in the studies on rats the rats had u/s waves specfically pointed at their brains for extended periods of time...not just a quick swipe over the whole body with a wand.
quote: Originally posted by FirstTimeMom814: I think that having them to make sure things are going well from a medical standpoint is fine. The risks of the u/s to the babies are outweighed by making sure that things are going well especially given your previous history. I had them every month while I was pregnant. I agree, I think the benefits outweigh the risks, especially with twins. It is kind of scary, since you don't know for sure if they're ok... I've been having them every week since 19 weeks, and will until I deliver, if not twice a week. But in certain cases, like Tom Cruise buying an u/s machine for Katie... I think they're best avoided if not needed!
