She was 28 weeks pregnant and her belly measured slightly smaller than expected. Her gynecologist said, “Let us do a growth scan to make sure the baby is gaining weight properly.” She panicked. Was something wrong? Was the baby too small? Would she need an emergency delivery?
Thirty minutes later, the scan confirmed that the baby was healthy, growing well, and weighed exactly what a 28 week baby should. The amniotic fluid was normal. The placenta was functioning fine. She walked out of the clinic relieved, holding a printed image of her baby’s face.
This is what a gynae ultrasound in Mohali does at its best: it replaces fear with facts. Whether you are pregnant and need to track your baby’s growth, or dealing with symptoms like pelvic pain, irregular periods, or suspected PCOD, an ultrasound scan gives your gynecologist the visual information needed to diagnose accurately and plan treatment confidently.
This article covers every type of pregnancy and gynecological ultrasound available in Mohali, what each scan detects, when you need it, how to prepare, and where to get it done with a female doctor who explains results the same day.
Key Takeaways
- Every pregnancy needs at least five key ultrasound scans: dating scan, NT scan, anomaly scan, growth scan, and pre delivery scan
- Growth scans in the third trimester measure the baby’s weight, head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length to confirm healthy development
- Gynae ultrasound (pelvic ultrasound) is the primary diagnostic tool for PCOD, ovarian cysts, fibroids, endometrial abnormalities, and ectopic pregnancy
- At Medisyn Clinic, all pregnancy and gynae ultrasounds are performed by a female gynecologist with same day report availability
- Both Medisyn locations (Sector 79 Airport Road, Mohali and Kharar Landran Road) offer ultrasound services
Pregnancy Ultrasound Timeline: 5 Scans Every Pregnant Woman in Mohali Should Know
Pregnancy ultrasound is not a single event. It is a series of carefully timed scans, each designed to answer specific questions about your baby’s health at different stages. According to Mayo Clinic, regular prenatal care that includes scheduled ultrasound scans significantly improves pregnancy outcomes by catching complications early. Here is the complete timeline:
1. Dating Scan (Week 6 to 8): Confirming Pregnancy and Due Date
This is usually the first ultrasound of pregnancy. It answers three fundamental questions: Is the pregnancy in the uterus (ruling out ectopic pregnancy)? Is there a heartbeat? How far along is the pregnancy?
The dating scan measures the crown rump length (CRL) of the embryo to calculate the gestational age accurately. This age is more reliable than counting from the last period date, especially for women with irregular cycles. The scan also checks whether there is a single baby or twins.
What to expect: Often done as a transvaginal ultrasound (internally) at this early stage because the embryo is too small to see clearly through the abdomen. The procedure is painless and takes 10 to 15 minutes.
2. NT Scan / First Trimester Screening (Week 11 to 13): Checking for Chromosomal Risks
The Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan measures the fluid collection at the back of the baby’s neck. A thickened nuchal fold can indicate a higher risk of chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21). This scan is combined with a blood test (Double Marker or Dual Screen) to calculate a risk score.
Important to know: An abnormal NT scan does not mean the baby has a chromosomal condition. It means the risk is higher and further testing (such as NIPT or amniocentesis) may be recommended. Many women with higher than normal NT results go on to have perfectly healthy babies.
3. Anomaly Scan / Level 2 Scan (Week 18 to 22): The Most Detailed Scan of Pregnancy
Also called the TIFFA (Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies) scan, this is the most comprehensive ultrasound in pregnancy. It examines every major organ system of the baby: brain, spine, heart, kidneys, stomach, limbs, face, and the placenta. The scan checks for structural abnormalities that may require planning for delivery or postnatal treatment.
This is also the scan where the baby’s gender can be identified, although under Indian law (PCPNDT Act), sex determination is illegal and no reputable clinic will disclose the gender. At Medisyn Clinic, the anomaly scan is performed by Dr. Balvin Kaur Ghai herself, ensuring that any findings are immediately explained and further care is planned by the same doctor managing the pregnancy.
4. Growth Scan (Week 28 to 32): Tracking Baby’s Size and Weight
The growth scan is where the term “pregnancy growth scan” comes from, and it is one of the most searched scan types for pregnant women in Mohali. This scan measures four key parameters:
- Head Circumference (HC): Checks brain growth and skull development
- Abdominal Circumference (AC): The single most important measurement for estimating fetal weight and nutrition status
- Femur Length (FL): Measures the thigh bone to assess skeletal growth
- Estimated Fetal Weight (EFW): Calculated from HC, AC, and FL combined; tells the doctor whether the baby is growing at the expected rate for its gestational age
The growth scan also checks:
- Amniotic fluid volume (too much or too little is a warning sign)
- Placental position and grade (how well the placenta is functioning)
- Baby’s position (head down, breech, or transverse)
- Umbilical artery Doppler (blood flow from placenta to baby, done when growth concerns exist)
If the growth scan shows the baby is smaller than expected (intrauterine growth restriction, or IUGR), the doctor may recommend more frequent scans, Doppler monitoring, and in some cases, early delivery. If the baby is larger than expected (macrosomia), gestational diabetes testing and delivery planning become priorities.
Women already receiving pregnancy management at Medisyn get their growth scans scheduled as part of the regular prenatal plan, with results reviewed the same day by Dr. Balvin.
5. Pre Delivery Scan (Week 36 to 38): Final Check Before Birth
This scan confirms the baby’s position (head down for normal delivery, breech for possible cesarean), estimated weight, amniotic fluid level, and placental condition. It directly informs delivery planning and helps the doctor decide whether a normal vaginal delivery is feasible or whether a cesarean should be planned.
Pregnancy Ultrasound Schedule at a Glance
| Scan | Week | What It Checks | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dating Scan | 6 to 8 | Heartbeat, gestational age, ectopic rule out, single or twin | Transvaginal or Transabdominal |
| NT Scan | 11 to 13 | Nuchal translucency, chromosomal risk markers | Transabdominal |
| Anomaly Scan (Level 2) | 18 to 22 | All fetal organs, spine, brain, heart, limbs, placenta | Transabdominal |
| Growth Scan | 28 to 32 | Fetal weight, head/abdomen/femur measurements, fluid, Doppler | Transabdominal |
| Pre Delivery Scan | 36 to 38 | Baby’s position, weight, fluid, placenta, delivery feasibility | Transabdominal |
High risk pregnancies (gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, twins, IUGR, previous cesarean) may require additional growth scans every 2 to 3 weeks during the third trimester.
“I tell every pregnant patient the same thing: ultrasound is not something to fear. It is the safest, most informative window into your baby’s world. When I do a growth scan and show a mother her baby’s face on screen, the relief and joy on her face makes every minute worth it. But beyond the emotional moment, that scan gives me critical medical information: is the baby growing well, is the placenta working, is delivery going to be straightforward. That data shapes every decision from that scan forward.”
Dr. Balvin Kaur Ghai, Chief Gynecologist, Medisyn Clinic, Mohali
Gynae Ultrasound: Not Just for Pregnancy
A gynae ultrasound in Mohali is not only for pregnant women. Pelvic ultrasound is the primary diagnostic tool for a wide range of gynecological conditions. Cleveland Clinic confirms that pelvic ultrasound is used to evaluate the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding structures for conditions including cysts, fibroids, abnormal bleeding, and pelvic pain.
Here are the non pregnancy conditions where a gynae ultrasound is essential:
PCOD and PCOS Diagnosis
Pelvic ultrasound reveals the classic polycystic appearance of the ovaries: multiple small follicles (typically 12 or more, each under 10 mm) arranged along the periphery of the ovary, often described as a “string of pearls” pattern. The scan also measures ovarian volume, which is often increased in PCOD. Combined with blood test results (testosterone, LH, FSH, insulin), ultrasound findings confirm or rule out PCOD. Women seeking PCOD treatment always begin with this scan.
Ovarian Cysts
Ultrasound is the gold standard for detecting, measuring, and characterizing ovarian cysts. It can differentiate between functional cysts (which resolve on their own), dermoid cysts, endometriomas (chocolate cysts), and complex cysts that may need surgical evaluation. The scan also monitors cyst size over time to decide whether watchful waiting or surgery is appropriate.
Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids appear as solid masses within or on the uterine wall. Ultrasound identifies their number, size, and location (subserosal, intramural, or submucosal), which directly determines whether they are causing symptoms and what treatment approach is best. A fibroid pressing into the uterine cavity causes different problems than one growing outward.
Endometrial Thickness
The endometrial lining thickness changes throughout the menstrual cycle. An abnormally thick endometrium in a postmenopausal woman may warrant further investigation (endometrial biopsy) to rule out endometrial hyperplasia or pathology. In younger women, endometrial thickness assessment helps evaluate unexplained bleeding and infertility.
Ectopic Pregnancy
When a positive pregnancy test is accompanied by pelvic pain or spotting, ultrasound is the first investigation to confirm whether the pregnancy is inside the uterus or ectopic (in the fallopian tube). Ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.
Infertility Evaluation
Serial ultrasound follicular monitoring tracks the growth of follicles in the ovaries during a treatment cycle (ovulation induction or IUI). Scans are done every 2 to 3 days to identify when the dominant follicle is ready for ovulation, guiding the timing of medication and intercourse or insemination.
Transabdominal vs Transvaginal Ultrasound: Which One and When?
| Feature | Transabdominal Ultrasound | Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVS) |
|---|---|---|
| How it is done | Probe placed on the abdomen; gel applied externally | Small probe inserted into the vagina; covered with a disposable sheath |
| Best for | Second and third trimester pregnancy scans; large fibroids; general pelvic overview | Early pregnancy (below 8 weeks); PCOD; small cysts; endometrial detail; follicular monitoring |
| Image quality | Good for later pregnancy; limited detail for early pregnancy and deep pelvic structures | Superior detail for ovaries, uterine lining, and early pregnancy |
| Patient comfort | Full bladder required for optimal images; external and non invasive | Empty bladder; mildly invasive but painless; many women prefer a female doctor for this scan |
At Medisyn Clinic, all transvaginal ultrasounds are performed by Dr. Balvin Kaur Ghai, a female gynecologist. Many women specifically prefer a female doctor for TVS, and this preference is fully respected.
Why Getting Your Gynae Ultrasound at a Gynecologist’s Clinic Matters
Many women in Mohali get their ultrasounds done at standalone diagnostic centres or radiology labs. The scan is performed by a technician or radiologist, and the report is sent to the gynecologist days later. This works for routine scans, but it creates a gap in care for anything complex.
When the gynae ultrasound in Mohali is done by the treating gynecologist herself, three advantages emerge:
- Immediate clinical correlation: The doctor performing the scan already knows the patient’s history, symptoms, and treatment plan. She interprets the images in real time within the clinical context, not as an isolated report
- Same day action: If the scan reveals a finding that needs treatment, whether it is a large cyst, an abnormal endometrial thickness, or a growth restricted baby, the doctor can discuss next steps immediately instead of waiting for a report and then scheduling another visit
- No miscommunication: When the person who reads the scan is the same person who manages the patient, findings are never lost in translation between a radiologist’s report and a gynecologist’s interpretation
How to Prepare for Your Ultrasound Scan
- For transabdominal ultrasound: Drink 3 to 4 glasses of water one hour before the scan and do not urinate. A full bladder pushes the uterus into a better position for imaging
- For transvaginal ultrasound: Empty your bladder before the scan. No special preparation needed
- Wear comfortable clothing: Loose fitting clothes make it easier to expose the abdomen for scanning
- Bring previous reports: If this is a follow up scan, bring earlier ultrasound reports for comparison
- No fasting required: Eat normally before your appointment
Medisyn Clinic: Gynae Ultrasound Facility in Mohali
Medisyn Clinic at Sector 79, Airport Road, Mohali and Kharar Landran Road offers complete pregnancy and gynae ultrasound services. Key features:
- Female gynecologist performs all scans: Dr. Balvin Kaur Ghai personally conducts all obstetric and pelvic ultrasounds
- Same day reports: Results are discussed with the patient immediately after the scan; printed reports provided the same day
- Full pregnancy coverage: Dating scan through pre delivery scan, all under one roof
- Gynae ultrasound: PCOD evaluation, cyst monitoring, fibroid assessment, infertility follicular tracking, and post procedure follow up
- Appointment: +91 9779977155 or +91 9779977016
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many ultrasound scans are done during pregnancy?
A minimum of five scans are recommended: dating scan (week 6 to 8), NT scan (week 11 to 13), anomaly scan (week 18 to 22), growth scan (week 28 to 32), and pre delivery scan (week 36 to 38). High risk pregnancies may need additional scans every 2 to 3 weeks in the third trimester.
2. Is ultrasound safe during pregnancy?
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation. It has been used for over 50 years in obstetric care with no documented harmful effects on the mother or baby. It is the safest imaging method available during pregnancy.
3. What is a pregnancy growth scan and when is it done?
A growth scan measures the baby’s head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and estimated weight. It checks amniotic fluid and placental function. Typically done between week 28 and 32, it confirms whether the baby is growing at the expected rate for its gestational age.
4. What does a gynae ultrasound check for in non pregnant women?
A gynae (pelvic) ultrasound evaluates the uterus and ovaries for conditions including PCOD, ovarian cysts, fibroids, endometrial thickness, polyps, and adenomyosis. It is the first investigation recommended for irregular periods, pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and suspected ovarian pathology.
5. Is a transvaginal ultrasound painful?
No. The TVS probe is small and slim. The procedure may feel slightly uncomfortable due to the internal placement, but it is not painful. It provides significantly better image quality for early pregnancy, PCOD, and endometrial assessment compared to abdominal ultrasound.
6. Can I get an ultrasound without a doctor’s prescription?
For pregnancy ultrasounds, a doctor’s prescription is legally required under the PCPNDT Act. For non pregnancy gynae ultrasounds, you can consult a gynecologist at Medisyn who will assess your symptoms and recommend the appropriate scan during the same visit.
7. How much does a pregnancy ultrasound cost in Mohali?
Pregnancy ultrasound costs in Mohali typically range from Rs.1,000 to Rs.3,000 depending on the type of scan (basic vs. Level 2 vs. Doppler). At Medisyn Clinic, scan costs are discussed transparently during your consultation.
8. Will a female doctor do my ultrasound at Medisyn?
Yes. Dr. Balvin Kaur Ghai, Chief Gynecologist, personally performs all obstetric and gynecological ultrasounds at Medisyn Clinic. She is a female doctor, and all scans are conducted in a private, comfortable setting.
9. What if the growth scan shows the baby is too small?
If the estimated fetal weight is below the 10th percentile for gestational age, the doctor may diagnose intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). This requires closer monitoring with Doppler scans every 1 to 2 weeks, potential bed rest, and in some cases, early delivery if blood flow to the baby is compromised. Early detection through growth scans is what makes the difference between a managed situation and an emergency.
10. Can I get all my pregnancy scans done at Medisyn Clinic itself?
Yes. Medisyn Clinic provides all pregnancy ultrasounds from the first dating scan through the pre delivery scan. Having all scans done at the same clinic by the same doctor ensures consistent measurement technique, reliable growth tracking comparisons across visits, and no miscommunication between separate facilities.
Your Baby’s Growth Deserves the Right Eyes on Every Scan
A gynae ultrasound in Mohali is not just a diagnostic procedure. In pregnancy, it is the window through which your doctor watches your baby grow, catches problems before they become emergencies, and plans a delivery that is safe for both mother and child. Outside of pregnancy, it is the tool that transforms vague symptoms like “pelvic pain” or “missed periods” into a clear diagnosis and a treatment plan.
Where you get that scan matters. When the doctor performing the ultrasound is the same specialist managing your entire care, from the first consultation through delivery or treatment, every scan result is immediately actionable. There is no waiting, no referral, no lost information.
At Medisyn Clinic (Sector 79, Airport Road, Mohali and Kharar Landran Road), Dr. Balvin Kaur Ghai offers complete pregnancy and gynae ultrasound services by appointment. Call +91 9779977155 or +91 9779977016 to schedule your scan.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice. For pregnancy monitoring or gynecological evaluation, please consult a qualified gynecologist.
