13-week ultrasound

The 13 week scan is a medical examination for physical abnormalities in the baby. It can only be done between 12+3 and 14+3 weeks of pregnancy. It’s similar to the 20-week ultrasound, which also looks for abnormalities. At 13 weeks the baby is much smaller and less developed, however, some abnormalities can be seen by then.

The 13-week ultrasound is part of a scientific study: the IMITAS study. If you opt for this study, you are consenting to participation in this study. During the counseling session, the midwife will give you more information on the 13-week ultrasound.

The ultrasound technician will visualize your baby by moving an ultrasound probe across your abdomen. An ultrasound doesn’t hurt and is not dangerous, your baby won’t feel a thing. The ultrasound takes about 30 minutes.

The ultrasound technician will discuss the results with you immediately after the ultrasound. In 95 out of 100 pregnancies, there is no sign of abnormalities. Follow-up testing is then not necessary. In about 5 out of 100 pregnancies, the ultrasound technician sees something that can be an abnormality. It’s not always clear if it’s indeed an abnormality, how serious it is and what it will mean for the health of your baby. This is why you can opt for follow-up testing.

You won’t have to pay for the counseling appointment and the ultrasound. Follow-up testing sometimes takes away from your deductible.