Ultrasound readings during pregnancy decoding 32 weeks. Ultrasound interpretation

Regardless of the course of pregnancy, an ultrasound examination at this stage is prescribed to all pregnant women.

The purpose of this procedure is to diagnose anomalies and malformations of the child, as well as to evaluate the organs and systems that ensure the vital activity and development of the fetus (including the placenta).

Studying the condition of the placenta is especially important, since by this period it becomes possible to visually recognize signs of placental insufficiency. This state of the organ, designed to nourish and protect the baby, is a direct threat to the life, health and development of the child in the womb.

Condition of the fetus at 32 weeks of gestation

By this time, the condition of the fetal skin reaches a state close to that of a newborn. A layer of subcutaneous fat accumulates - this makes the skin smooth and light. Lanugo (fluff) practically disappears, leaving thicker hairs in very small quantities on the head and body. In addition to the respiratory system, internal organs and systems operate almost at the level of a newborn. There is an active process of strengthening interneuron connections.

The position (presentation) of the fetus, which is determined at 32 weeks, is considered final. In the case of breech presentation, over the next 2 weeks it is possible to perform an external rotation of the baby. When the baby is positioned transversely or at an angle, this possibility is absent. This position of the baby is a sign of insufficient oxygen supply. In this regard, pregnant women are prescribed a Doppler study.

At this stage, normally, the amount of amniotic fluid has the largest volume. The volume is maintained until week 37, then the amount of water decreases. Therefore, during the period from 32 to 37 weeks, the kidneys of the expectant mother work under overload, in addition, the pregnant uterus mechanically compresses the surrounding tissues, causing stagnation in them. That is why the pathology of the mother’s kidneys manifests itself most often during this period. If there are signs of differences from the norm in the functioning of the urinary system, the woman may be prescribed an additional ultrasound procedure for diagnosing the condition of the kidneys.

At week 32, the fetus has almost finished forming; in appearance it is already completely similar to a newborn baby. The skin becomes smoother and lighter, and subcutaneous fat is evenly distributed throughout the body. During this period, the maximum amount of amniotic fluid in the uterus is noted.

Features of the ultrasound procedure during final screening

During an ultrasound examination at 32 weeks, the doctor evaluates the fetometric data of the fetus, confirms the fertility and timing of pregnancy, and determines the position of the baby in the womb. If the child’s size differs significantly from the norm, ultrasound diagnostics can determine this. If the baby’s size is 2 weeks behind the lower limit of normal, this is a cause for concern and additional examination. In this case, it is clear that for some reason, for example, due to placental insufficiency, the child does not receive enough nutrition and oxygen.

In case of a complicated pregnancy and suspected fetal developmental delay, additional examination and urgent measures are required to stop the baby’s suffering. Ultrasound is one of the most accurate and safe methods for diagnosing the fetus at any stage of pregnancy.

Ultrasound at 32 weeks: determining the condition of the placenta

At 32 weeks, the placenta is examined with special attention, its condition, its ability to perform functions in full, its structure, and location are studied. During this period, the diagnostic procedure for studying the placenta is most accurate.

The placenta is an organ without which it is impossible for the baby to feed and breathe in the womb. Any functional disorder or structural defect of this organ entails suffering for the baby, a slowdown in its growth and development caused by malnutrition and hypoxia. When interpreting ultrasound data, the following indicators are taken into account:

location of the placenta;
thickness;
degree of maturity (from 0 to III);
presence/absence of foreign inclusions (calcification), heart attacks.

The main object of ultrasound examination at 32 weeks of pregnancy is the placenta. This organ ensures the functioning and breathing of the fetus, and is therefore vital for its functioning. The doctor must check the readiness of the placenta for delivery and identify its presentation

The placenta insertion is of great importance for the normal process of delivery. Normally, the placenta is attached to the anterior or posterior wall of the reproductive organ (uterus). When the placenta is located close to the internal os of the uterus, there is a risk of bleeding during labor. In some cases, the placenta completely blocks the birth canal, making natural delivery impossible. In this case, surgical resolution of labor is carried out by cesarean section. After determining the position of the placenta, its thickness is assessed, measurements are taken at the site of attachment of the umbilical cord.

With an uncomplicated gestational process, the thickness of the placenta is within normal limits. In a complicated course, placental insufficiency (insufficient thickness of the placenta), an inflammatory process or edema (excessive thickness) can be diagnosed.

It is not worthwhile to independently interpret these indicators and compare them with the norm. It's better to wait for a specialist's comments. For reference, you can use the following information: the placenta matures from stage 0 to stage III. The last stage is III. The placenta should reach this stage at 36 weeks of gestation. Aging of the placenta that is too rapid requires observation and therapeutic intervention to improve blood flow in the placenta.

Fetometric data at 32 weeks with ultrasound diagnostics

When deciphering, the data obtained by ultrasonic scanning are compared with the normative ones. Normal fetometry indicators at 36 weeks are as follows:

sizes: biparietal (from 75 mm to 89 mm) and fronto-occipital (from 95 mm to 113 mm);
head circumference from 283 mm to 325 mm;
abdominal circumference from 258 mm to 314 mm;
lengths of tubular bones: femur - from 56 mm to 66 mm, tibia - from 52 mm to 60 mm, shoulder - from 52 mm to 62 mm, forearm - from 45 mm to 53 mm.

The doctor must take fetometric measurements of the fetus; the data obtained allows us to confirm the correct development of the unborn baby. The circumference of the abdomen and head, biparietal and fronto-occipital size, as well as the length of some bones are measured

Using the Doppler method at 32 weeks

Dopplerography (Doppler ultrasound) is one of the most informative, simple and safe ways to diagnose the condition of the blood supply tract in the uterus-placenta-fetus system. In ultrasound diagnostics, the Doppler method involves a thorough study of the blood flow in the vascular system of the uterus, the vessels of the placenta and the great vessels of the fetus. Thanks to the data obtained and comparing them with standards, the doctor can draw a conclusion about the condition of the child in the womb, its oxygen supply and the functioning of the myocardium and the vessels that supply it. The main Doppler indices are shown in the table:

FROM TO	umbilical arteries	2,48 - 2,52
	aortic	4 - 6,5
	internal carotid artery	4 - 6,5
Resistance Index (IR)	umbilical cord arteries	0,52 - 0,75
	uterine arteries	0,34 - 0,61
	fetal aorta	0,83 +-0,72
	internal carotid artery	0,79 - 0,81
Pulsatility Index (IP)	uterine arteries	0,4 - 0,65
Pulsatility Index (IP)	umbilical arteries	0,64 - 0,89
Average speed (cm/s)	in the umbilical arteries	32 - 39

Additional diagnostic procedures

By week 32, the accuracy of information obtained by ultrasound increases. This is especially true for determining the amount of amniotic fluid. In the event of a slowdown in fetal development, it is at this time that a diagnostic procedure such as amnioscopy(study of amniotic fluid).

Excessive or insufficient amount of water may be evidence of a malfunction of the placenta. Thanks to this procedure, you can timely and accurately diagnose:

hydramnios;
hypoamnion.

One of the frequently used procedures for direct diagnosis of a baby’s heart rate and indirect diagnosis of its condition is CTG. CTG or cardiotocography is an ultrasound examination method that allows you to record and even “voice” the work of the baby’s myocardium, in order to then compare it with standards.

Ultrasound scanning methods used in obstetric and gynecological practice have a high degree of safety, reliability, and information content. They require virtually no preparation and do not cause any inconvenience to the expectant mother. They allow a comprehensive assessment of the body condition of the expectant mother and her baby in a non-invasive way.

By this week, a pregnant woman on average gains 8-10 kg. The baby's weight is about 1800-2000 grams. It is no longer possible to sleep in a normal position. When turning on her back, the pregnant woman experiences an acute lack of air and begins to feel dizzy. This is explained by compression of the vena cava by the growing uterus and impaired blood supply respiratory system and left cardiac ventricle. The load on the hemorrhoidal veins and lower extremities increases, which prevents proper rest. The most comfortable position for rest is on the right or left side. You can place a small pillow under your stomach.

At 32 weeks of pregnancy, the baby continues to actively develop, and the expectant mother continues to gain weight. A growing belly causes more and more discomfort every day. Comfortable clothing and special exercises will help relieve discomfort.

The breasts are adjusted to milk production. To prepare the mammary glands for upcoming lactation, the fetal adrenal glands produce the hormone prolactin.

Many expectant mothers suffer from insomnia, increased anxiety, worries about the baby’s health and the approaching birth. As a rule, this is explained by hormonal changes, which, in addition to the listed conditions, also provoke nervousness and tearfulness. These phenomena are temporary and gradually pass away.

Against the backdrop of a growing belly, the internal organs shift slightly. This leads to heartburn, lower back pain and fluid accumulation in the tissues. To avoid swelling, you should reduce the amount of salt, carbohydrates and liquid you consume.

A dark stripe appears on the belly of the expectant mother, and hair growth on the body increases. As a rule, after delivery everything returns to normal. As the belly grows, the skin stretches, becoming dry and thin. This provokes the appearance of itching and stretch marks. To improve the condition of the skin and prevent the formation of stretch marks, you can use nourishing and moisturizing creams.

What happens to the fetus at 32 weeks of pregnancy

The main development of the fetus is completed at 32 weeks of pregnancy, and now the baby begins to grow rapidly and gain weight.

The baby recognizes his mother’s voice, feels her breathing and heartbeat, reacts to light and surrounding sounds. The immune system is being formed. The mother's body produces immunoglobulins, which form a supply of antibodies intended to protect the baby after birth.

Brain development is completed, the size of the head becomes more proportional to the body. Subcutaneous fat cells continue to accumulate, legs and arms become rounder, and the face becomes smooth. The “lanugo” fluff that covers the body of the fetus begins to be replaced by the first hairs. The sucking muscles and nervous system continue to improve.

Since the upper part of the baby’s body is much heavier than the lower part, many children fall head down by this time. There is still plenty of room to change positions, but it is becoming more difficult to do so. If the breech presentation of the fetus remains at 32 weeks of pregnancy, this may be an indication for artificial delivery (cesarean section).

How pregnancy manifests itself at 32 weeks

In addition to heartburn and swelling, the expectant mother may experience problems with breathing and intestinal motility. The appearance of such signs is due to the displacement of internal organs. The breasts enlarge and become sensitive. A venous network appears on the surface of the mammary glands, the areolas and nipples begin to darken. Pulling or painful sensations in the lower back and pelvic area are inevitable, which is explained by the increase in the weight of the pregnant woman and a shift in the center of gravity.

Vaginal discharge should be uniform, milky in color, and have a slight sour odor. If blood streaks, purulent or unpleasant-smelling leucorrhoea appear, you should consult a gynecologist. You should also consult a doctor if watery discharge occurs. Such a symptom may be a sign of leakage of amniotic fluid and the onset of premature delivery.

Tests at 32 weeks of pregnancy

At 32 weeks of pregnancy, you can undergo the third planned ultrasound of the fetus, during which the doctor assesses the condition, thickness and structure of the placenta, and listens to the heartbeat. Thanks to the obtained indicators, the doctor can detect possible infections, inflammations and other complications of pregnancy. Also, during the ultrasound examination, the position and physical condition of the fetus is clarified, and biometry is performed (measurement of the length of the femur, head size, average diameter and abdominal circumference).

At a routine appointment, the gynecologist, as usual, measures the blood pressure, weight, height of the uterine fundus and abdominal circumference of the pregnant woman. The doctor will also announce the results of preliminary tests (blood tests, urine tests, etc.).

Possible pregnancy problems at 32 weeks of gestation

The expectant mother needs to follow all the doctor's recommendations and instructions, since placental insufficiency and intrauterine pathologies of the fetus may be first diagnosed at 32-34 weeks. Placental insufficiency can lead to disruption of the transport and respiratory functions of the placenta, which provokes the development of hypoxia. In such a case, a caesarean section is performed or premature birth.

If any pathological symptoms occur (headache, sudden weight gain, blurred vision, swelling, etc.), you should inform your doctor. The listed manifestations may indicate late toxicosis. Taking into account the characteristics of pregnancy and the health status of the expectant mother, the doctor will prescribe appropriate treatment, adjust the diet and provide other recommendations, the observance of which will make it easier to feel better and ensure a comfortable pregnancy.

Another complication of 32 weeks of pregnancy is premature birth. Signs of preterm labor that should alert a pregnant woman include:

Periodic pain in the lower abdomen;
Intensification and frequency of training contractions (about 5 attacks over an hour);
Sudden onset of diarrhea;
The appearance of copious watery or bloody discharge.

If you find any of the above symptoms, you should immediately go to the maternity hospital or call a doctor.

Advice to future mothers remains the same. This is a balanced and proper diet, moderate exercise, good mood and good spirits. It’s also time for a woman to think about choosing a maternity hospital, start buying the necessary things and arranging her home.

Nutritional Features

It is important for an expectant mother to distinguish between overeating and proper nutrition. Many women, trying to provide their baby with the necessary nutrients, begin to exceed the permissible caloric content of the daily menu. This provokes a sharp weight gain in mother and fetus with all the accompanying disorders.

The diet must be planned in such a way as to receive the necessary substances without exceeding the established energy value nutrition (2500-3000 thousand kcal). It is better to take proteins from lean meats (beef, veal, turkey, rabbit, chicken) and fish. Dairy products and vegetable oils are considered the optimal source of fat. Carbohydrates can be taken from various cereals and vegetables.

You can eat fruits as desserts and snacks. It is not recommended to abuse fruits that are too high in calories and sweet (grapes, bananas). You need to add more fiber-rich foods to your diet and control the amount of fluid consumed. This will improve digestive function and intestinal motility, avoiding constipation and hemorrhoids.

Taking vitamins

Subject to compliance proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle does not require additional vitamin intake. However, most pregnant women fail to ensure they receive the necessary micronutrients and vitamins through food. Most often, women suffer from a deficiency of vitamin D and calcium, which are recommended to be taken additionally. The gynecologist may also recommend taking multivitamin complexes. It is not recommended to prescribe them to yourself. An overdose of some elements is much more dangerous than their deficiency.

Sex at 32 weeks pregnant

The gynecologist should warn about possible contraindications to intimate relationships. Reason for restriction sex life There may be multiple pregnancies, placenta previa, leakage of amniotic fluid, isthmic-cervical insufficiency and other pathologies of pregnancy.

If the pregnant woman feels normal and there are no contraindications listed above, sexual intercourse will even be beneficial. This is due to the presence of prostaglandins in the ejaculate (sperm), which improve the dilation of the uterus during childbirth. The level of sexual desire for each pregnant woman is individual. In some women, libido increases significantly, while in others, sexual desire may be completely absent. Both cases are considered normal.

Many parents refuse intimate relationships for fear of harming their child. This is unlikely, since the fetus is reliably protected by the membranes. You need to choose a comfortable position that eliminates deep penetration and pressure on the abdomen.

Physical activity

Pregnancy is not a disease and not a reason to give up physical activity. Lying and sitting in one position for a long time can lead to gaining extra pounds, deep vein thrombosis and other problems. Possible physical exercise will help prevent these complications and allow you to keep your body in shape.

It will be useful breathing exercises, which will teach a pregnant woman how to breathe properly during labor and childbirth. You can do exercises, do aerobics, and walk outside. Those women who find the listed activities too overwhelming can try water aerobics. In water, the weight becomes lighter, making it easier for a pregnant woman to perform various exercises.

Ultrasound examination is one of the few diagnostic methods used in pregnant women. This is primarily due to its safety and information content. Particularly important is the ability to examine the fetus at 32 weeks of pregnancy using ultrasound and its interpretation. The norm of measured indicators is interesting to every woman, because only in this way will the expectant mother be confident in the successful development of her baby.

Research objectives

Ultrasound during this period is of paramount importance, because it is included in ultrasound screening. During the entire period of bearing a child, a woman is strongly recommended to undergo three screening examinations. The last of them should be carried out from 30 to 34 weeks of pregnancy, more often at 32 weeks.

An ultrasound scan at 32 weeks of pregnancy is necessary for every woman, because its tasks include:

Examination of the fetus.

A woman is recommended to free her stomach from clothing so that the suprapubic area is also free.
The pregnant woman lies down on the couch, previously covered with a towel or diaper.
The examination begins, as a rule, in the supine position. However, if a woman feels any discomfort (dizziness, shortness of breath, nausea, blurred vision, tinnitus or any other), then the position can be changed. The main thing is not to be shy, but to tell the doctor about your discomfort.
The diagnostician applies the gel to the skin of the abdomen or to the sensor and begins the examination.
During the ultrasound, the doctor may repeatedly ask the patient to change her body position for better visualization of the fetus.
Upon completion of the examination, the woman is helped to rise, she gets dressed and awaits the result.

During the study, the doctor may record a short video or print out an image of the baby.

Normal indicators

Interpretation of an ultrasound scan at 32 weeks of pregnancy comes down to determining whether the measured parameters correspond to the normative ones and assessing the functional characteristics.

The table shows normal indicators characteristic of the fetus at 31-33 weeks of development:

Normal indicators for 32 weeks of pregnancy

The heart rate should not be consistently less than 140 beats per minute and above 160 beats.

Umbilical cord

Examination of the umbilical cord begins with determining the number of arterial and venous vessels in it. Next, the doctor evaluates the presence of loops, knots, and entanglement around the fetus. Often, examination reveals abnormalities in the structure of the umbilical cord and the presence of cysts in it.

Placenta

When examining the umbilical cord, the doctor pays attention to its thickness, which should not be more than 45 mm, which may indicate intrauterine infection. On the contrary, if its thickness is less than 20 mm, this is a sign of premature maturation or aging of the placenta, which requires treatment of placental insufficiency.

Degrees of placenta maturity:

0 – up to 30 weeks;
1 – 27-36 weeks;
2 – 34-39 weeks;
3 – more than 37 weeks.

In addition to visualizing the position of the placenta, the doctor can identify the space between it and the uterus, which indicates premature detachment.

Amniotic fluid

The amount of amniotic fluid by week 32 should not be more than one and a half liters. In order to determine the amount of water, the amniotic fluid index (AFI) is measured.

To measure the amniotic index, the abdomen is conventionally divided into 4 sections so that one line runs along the linea alba of the abdomen, and the second through the navel perpendicular to the first. The doctor measures the greatest thickness of fluid between the wall of the uterus and the fetus in each pocket and sums up 4 indicators. AFI at 32 weeks should be in the range from 144 mm to 269 mm.

If the indicator is less than the specified norm, they speak of oligohydramnios, and more - of polyhydramnios.

Uterus

An examination of the uterus is carried out to determine the tone of its walls, since its increase can lead to premature birth.

If the first pregnancy ended with surgery, then an ultrasound will assess the condition of the scar.

The period of 32 weeks of pregnancy is decisive for determining the tactics of childbirth. All important indicators, the degree of maturity of the lungs, the growth and parameters of the fetus, the exact date of its birth can be assessed using ultrasound. By conducting this study in time, you can avoid risks to the fetus. natural birth and reduce the consequences of placental insufficiency.

Timing of the third planned ultrasound

Sonography in the third trimester is prescribed to:

accurately determine whether it is possible to give birth naturally, or whether it is only possible;
timely improve the supply of oxygen to fetal tissues, especially brain tissues;
take timely measures in case of premature aging of the placenta;
attempt to rotate the fetus from head to head (only if natural birth is planned);
perform surgery in utero to correct life-threatening malformations or be prepared for it immediately after birth.

It is important to comply with the timing of the ultrasound examination. This is 32-34 weeks of pregnancy.

If it is necessary to turn the fetus into a cephalic presentation, perform intrauterine surgery or invasive intervention (or), the results of an ultrasound examination determine how mature (that is, ready for “extrauterine” breathing) its lungs are. If a conclusion is given about zero or first degree of maturity, before carrying out the above manipulations, a course of injections is prescribed that will help the lungs mature faster. Only after this the planned interventions begin.

This algorithm is followed due to the high risk of premature birth, which can be provoked by any intervention in the pregnant uterus. The fetus's brain and heart are already fully mature by this time. The only thing that needs to be prepared for extrauterine conditions is the lungs, and they are assessed during this ultrasound.

What does a fetus look like in the eighth month?

The main organs have already been formed: some of them are undergoing additional development, as well as active weight gain and lengthening of the body.

Almost all internal organs function:

the kidneys filter ingested amniotic fluid, secreting urine;
the heart contracts 140-160 beats per minute, but the blood does not circulate quite as much as after birth;
feces appear in the intestines;
all senses work;
brain neurons actively connect with each other, forming strong connections (this allows the fetus to form a reaction to a certain impact);
the ovaries are filled with eggs, and in most boys the testicles are already in the scrotum (4% complete the process within the first 12 months).

Only the lungs do not work, which at 32-34 weeks still resemble the liver in density. They already have the necessary “bags” where gas exchange occurs (alveoli), but there is still insufficient surfactant - a substance that will not allow these “bags” to subside. The immune system is also underdeveloped.

Ultrasound photo at 32 weeks of pregnancy

The period of pregnancy itself, during which the third ultrasound is performed, is considered a critical period due to the likelihood. Right now it may develop:

premature, both presenting and normally located;
worsening, up to the development of eclampsia.

At 30-34 weeks, twins or triplets are most often born. And although the born children are already viable, their appearance at this stage will often require subsequent treatment of varying durations.

Preparation

The study is carried out without preliminary preparation: diet or filling Bladder not necessary at this time. The amniotic fluid will serve as a liquid “window” that allows you to look into the pregnant uterus.

The only caveat concerns expectant mothers who have not quit smoking. Since ultrasound in this period is almost always performed (it allows you to assess blood flow through the vessels), you need to take a break of at least 2 hours before the study, otherwise the data obtained will be uninformative due to generalized spasm of the arteries.

How is it done?

The pregnant woman will need to lie on her back and place a small cushion or her own fist under her right side. This will displace the uterus from the inferior vena cava, which will help it avoid a sharp decline blood pressure and disturbances in the blood supply to the fetus.

At this stage, ultrasound is performed transabdominally, that is, percutaneously. An examination is not carried out with a vaginal sensor, even if there was an ICI and a pessary is in place (or the cervix is sutured). This is due to the risk of causing premature birth during this critical period for pregnancy.

The duration of “conventional” (two-dimensional) sonography with Doppler examination is about 20 minutes. If necessary (if the question is about umbilical cord entanglement) or if desired, you will have to spend at least 40 minutes in the office.

Normal indicators for deciphering ultrasound results

Let's look at everything that a sonologist examines, point by point.

Presentation

Normally, at 33 weeks of pregnancy, presentation should be cephalic. In case of breech presentation, the pregnant woman is recommended to carry out external rotation of the fetus. The manipulation is performed under ultrasound guidance.

If detected at 34 weeks or later, breech presentation cannot be corrected.

If at this stage an oblique or transverse position of the fetus is diagnosed, then, with rare exceptions (for example, when a pregnant woman has abnormalities in the structure of the uterus), this indicates. This condition requires hospitalization and treatment.

Umbilical cord

It should contain 3 vessels: two arteries and a vein. A condition where 2 vessels are detected requires hospitalization in order to have time to provide assistance to the pregnant woman and the fetus.

Placenta

Normally, it is most often located on the back, but can also be on the anterior wall of the uterus. The main thing is that it does not cover the exit from the uterus (central placenta previa) and is not located lower than 70 mm from the edge of the internal os.

The maturity of the placenta at 32 weeks is “1”, at 33 – “1”, at 34 – “2”. The thickness of the placenta at 32 weeks is 2.53-4.2 cm.

Cervix

At any stage of pregnancy, with the exception of the period of labor, it is at least 2.9 cm. Both pharynxes must be closed until the moment of birth. An open pharynx and shortening of the cervical ridge indicate a diagnosis of isthmic-cervical insufficiency.

Uterine muscle

She is examined for tone. Normally, during the study, a short-term increase in tone may be recorded when stimulated by the sensor, but it quickly passes.

If the pregnant woman had C-section, be sure to evaluate the condition of the scar. At the slightest suspicion of its failure, the woman should go to the hospital for possible emergency surgical delivery in the interests of the fetus.

An ultrasound at 32 weeks of pregnancy is often prescribed as the last one. The procedure allows for timely detection of abnormalities in the development of the fetus and the organs that surround it. This significantly reduces the risk of an unfavorable birth outcome and helps determine the optimal tactics.

Prescribed for , 32 or . The examination is carried out even in the absence of any discomfort or alarming signs.

On later Pregnancy ultrasound does not pose any danger. The placenta and amniotic fluid protect the fetus from any unpleasant sensations due to exposure to ultrasound. There are no contraindications to this procedure.

Week 32 is considered critical. It is during this period of pregnancy that problems develop that lead to premature birth.

Among them the most common:

isthmic-cervical insufficiency;
placental abruption;
gestosis, eclampsia.

At week 32, the fetus takes its final position. The delivery technique largely depends on this parameter. Therefore, this period in itself is considered an indication for ultrasound.

To watch a video review on the topic:

Preparation and conduct of the study

No special preparation is required for screening in the third trimester (diet or drinking water before the procedure). A woman needs to sign up for an examination and take a shower before going to the ultrasound. You need to have a towel for the couch, disposable wipes for removing gel and shoe covers.

If a woman smokes at 32 weeks of pregnancy, she needs to refrain from smoking for 2 hours before the procedure.

A typical two-dimensional ultrasound lasts no more than 20 minutes. It is carried out as follows:

The doctor invites the patient into the office and invites her to lie down on a couch covered with a towel. You need to put a roller or fist under your side. The belly is exposed.
A layer of special gel is applied to the patient’s stomach. It is cold, so it often causes discomfort.
The doctor moves the sensor over the abdomen and examines the image that appears on the screen. In the process, he tells the expectant mother the most important facts about her fetus.
After the procedure, the woman gets up from the couch, removes the remaining gel, and gets dressed. After 5–10 minutes, she receives a description of the examination and, if desired, a photo of an ultrasound scan of the fetus.

Three-dimensional and four-dimensional ultrasounds take longer (40–60 minutes). But the expectant mother gets the opportunity to watch a real color film about her baby.

Decoding the results

During an ultrasound in the third trimester, the doctor examines a number of parameters. Usually he immediately informs his mother about the presence of deviations. He gives the remaining parameters in the description. Knowing the decoding, a woman can study them on her own.

Table of normal fetal indicators:

They also look at the baby’s weight at 32 weeks of pregnancy using ultrasound; the norm varies between 1.6–2.1 kg. The size of the fetus is 40–43 cm. A slight deviation in the weight of the fetus and its growth is not critical. This indicator is influenced by many factors, including heredity.

Sometimes an ultrasound with Doppler is prescribed. This procedure shows the correct blood flow.

Arteries of the umbilical cord. SDO – 2.8–3.4. IR – 0.6–0.67. PI – 0.95–0.96.
Internal carotid artery. SDO – 2.8–3.4. IR – 0.6–0.67. PI – 0.95–0.96.
Uterine artery. SDO – 1.7–1.9. IR – 0.69–0.86. PI – 0.69–0.86.
Fetal aorta. SDO – 5.7–7.3. IR – 0.8–0.86. PI – 1.76–2.2.

The doctor also checks the condition of the fetal organs. At this stage, the kidneys are already filtering water and the substances it contains, the senses are fully functioning, the ovaries contain eggs, the baby’s face expresses emotions, and his hands make grasping movements. Often by this time the testicles have already descended.

The lungs at 32 weeks are not yet developed enough to function outside the womb. They resemble liver tissue in density. The doctor studies not only the fetal organs, but also the maternal organs associated with labor.

The list shows the normal indicators:

The position of the fetus in the uterus is cephalic.
Umbilical cord. 1 vein and 2 arteries are identified. There is no entwinement of the fetus with the umbilical cord.
Placenta. Located on the back or front wall. It is located no lower than 70 mm from the edge of the internal pharynx. Stage 1 of maturity is observed. Thickness varies between 2.5–4.2 cm.
Cervix. Both pharynxes are closed. Size no less than 2.9 cm.
Uterine tone. May be observed briefly when exposed to the sensor. Returns to normal quickly.
Amniotic fluid. Normally, the amniotic index varies between 70–270 mm.

If there are deviations, a decision is made to hospitalize the woman and treat her. The list shows the most common anomalies:

Breech presentation of the fetus is a common phenomenon that can be corrected at this stage. Transverse and oblique positions are often associated with hypoxia.
Entwining the fetus with the umbilical cord.
Incompetence of the uterine scar. Manifests itself in the form of thinning or modification of the scar.
Central placenta previa.
Short cervical roll and open throat. Signs of isthmic-cervical insufficiency.
Uterine tone. Talks about the threat of premature birth.
Oligohydramnios - oligohydramnios. Polyhydramnios - polyhydramnios.

A large fetus is also a deviation from the norm and can cause a caesarean section.

Also see what an ultrasound looks like for a fetus:

How much does an ultrasound cost?

If prescribed by a doctor, you can do an ultrasound absolutely free of charge at a government institution. A woman needs to get in line in advance and have a referral from a gynecologist with her.

In paid clinics, the cost of an examination varies between 1,700–4,800 rubles. It depends on the pricing policy of the establishment.

An ultrasound at 32 weeks is often prescribed as the last examination before childbirth. Every pregnant woman needs it, as it allows her to avoid “unpleasant surprises” during childbirth.

If you had an ultrasound at 32 weeks, please share your experience in the comments. Repost the article on social media. networks.