Examinations Referral
FTUL
FTUL first trimester ultrasound Week 12-13+6
The scan is performed transabdominally. During the first-trimester ultrasound, the pregnancy is dated and you will receive an estimated date of delivery (EDD). We assess the number of fetuses, check for fetal heart activity, and evaluate the amount of amniotic fluid. The position of the placenta is also assessed.
The fetal anatomy is examined in accordance with the Swedish Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (SFOG) checklist for first-trimester fetal anatomy, in order to detect major anatomical abnormalities.
CUB
CUB Week 12-13+6
The Combined Ultrasound and Blood test (CUB) includes an ultrasound scan together with a maternal blood test measuring PAPP-A and free β-hCG. The scan is performed transabdominally.
During the CUB appointment, the pregnancy is dated and you receive an estimated date of delivery (EDD). We check the number of fetuses, fetal heart activity and amniotic fluid volume. The fetal anatomy is examined according to the SFOG checklist to identify major anatomical abnormalities, and the position of the placenta is assessed.
A risk estimate for chromosomal abnormalities — including Trisomy 13, 18 and 21 — is also calculated. If the result indicates an increased risk, further diagnostic testing such as non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) or invasive sampling (amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling) may be offered if the woman or couple wishes.
RUL
Routine Ultrasound Week 19-20
The routine ultrasound is performed transabdominally at around 19–20 weeks of pregnancy.
If you have not previously had a CUB or FTUL examination, we will date the pregnancy and provide an estimated date of delivery (EDD).
We assess fetal heart activity, movements, amniotic fluid volume, and placental position.
At this stage, the fetus is approximately 20 cm in length, which allows for a detailed anatomical examination (according to the SFOG checklist) to confirm that all organs are present and developing as expected.
If you wish, you may also find out the gender of the baby.
NIPT
NIPT from Week 12
NIPT (non-invasive prenatal test) is a blood test that can be taken on the pregnant woman after she has first undergone CUB. If the CUB test shows an increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities, NIPT is offered free of charge.
If you would like NIPT despite a low-risk CUB result, it can be performed privately at your own cost. The test is risk-free and has high reliability.It analyses small amounts of cell-free fetal DNA found in the mother’s blood to assess the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities such as Trisomy 13, 18, 21, or an abnormal number of sex chromosomes.
If the NIPT result indicates a high risk, a chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis must always be conducted to confirm the diagnosis.
Growth Monitoring & Doppler
Growth Monitoring & Doppler Week 24-41
Growth monitoring is performed transabdominally. Growth monitoring can be performed from week 24+0 and onwards. Fetal weight may need to be monitored if the midwife’s measurements suggest that your abdomen has grown more or less than expected, or if there are risk factors that could affect fetal growth.
During the examination, the child's head, abdomen, and femur are measured to estimate approximate weight. Heart activity, fetal movements, fetal position, amniotic fluid volume, and placenta placement are checked. The later in the pregnancy, the more difficult it usually becomes to see the child in full on the screen as it gets tighter and the child lies further down towards the pelvis.
Doppler flow studies may also be performed to assess blood flow in the uterine and fetal circulation, providing additional information on placental and fetal well-being.
Placenta
Placenta's position Week 24-34
If the placenta is located close to the inner cervix during the routine ultrasound, a follow-up scan will be scheduled. This examination may be performed transabdominally and, if needed, transvaginally.
We recommend a moderately full bladder — please avoid emptying your bladder for about one hour before the examination.
