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The third ultrasound performed after the 30th week of pregnancy is to control the growth of the fetus in order to confirm its proper development or early diagnosis of abnormalities (IUGR – intrauterine growth retardation or macrosomia).
During the third ultrasound examination, the final confirmation or elimination of existing malformations takes place. There is also, if it has not been done so far, the assessment of the duration of pregnancy. It should be remembered that the measurements may be distorted during this period. The basic fetal biometry on this examination includes: measurements of the fetal head, abdomen, and femur. On the basis of these measurements, the computer of the ultrasound machine calculates the fetal age and the weight of the fetus. Fetal anatomy is also assessed in a manner similar to that in the second trimester of pregnancy, looking for any previously overlooked malformations.
An important element during the examination is to assess the behavior of the fetus, its mobility, and respiratory movements. The placenta is also assessed in terms of its thickness, maturity, and the amount of amniotic fluid. Finally, the fetal heart rate, frequency, and flows in the umbilical arteries of the brain are assessed.
And just like in the case of ultrasound performed in the second trimester of pregnancy, any suspicions of fetal abnormalities must be confirmed or ruled out in higher-level reference centers dealing with prenatal diagnosis. The decisions concerning the place of birth of the newborn baby are important. On the basis of this ultrasound, decisions are also made to terminate pregnancy in cases of its threat. Fetal swelling occurring in the case of realized serological conflict in the RhD system is an indication for termination of pregnancy or intra-pubic treatment in highly specialized centers. Gestational diabetes mellitus not compensated with concomitant macrosomia of the fetus is also an indication for termination of pregnancy. Fetal heart defects are an indication for delivery in centers with the possibility of cardiac surgery intervention in the newborn right after birth. There are countless examples here. There is only one conclusion that the test is used to assess the condition of the fetus and to predict possible disorders that may occur during delivery.
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