Fetal Ultrasound in Pokhara — Pregnancy Scans from Early Weeks to Delivery

What is a fetal ultrasound?

A fetal ultrasound is a pregnancy scan that uses high-frequency sound waves to show your baby, the placenta and the amniotic fluid on a screen, without any radiation. Doctors use it to confirm and date a pregnancy, count babies, check development, measure growth and look at blood flow. If you need a fetal ultrasound in Pokhara, Kaligandaki Diagnostic and Research Center (KDRC) at Shantipath, Amarsingh Chowk, performs every routine pregnancy scan — from early weeks to delivery — on an HD ultrasound system with 3D and 4D capability, reported by consultant radiologists.

In Nepal, many families simply call it the pregnancy USG, “garbhawastha ko USG” or the baby’s video X-ray, although no X-rays are involved. It is also known as an obstetric ultrasound or OB USG. This page is the guide to all the pregnancy scans in one place: what each scan is for, the best week to have it, how to prepare and what your report means. For the detailed mid-pregnancy organ check, see our dedicated anomaly scan (TIFFA) page; for lifelike baby-face imaging, see 4D and 5D ultrasound.

Which pregnancy scans do you need, and when?

Most pregnancies need at least two key scans: one at about 11–14 weeks to date the pregnancy and one at about 18–21 weeks to check the baby’s anatomy. The NHS offers both to every pregnant woman, and the UK NICE antenatal care guideline sets the windows more precisely at 11+2 to 14+1 weeks and 18+0 to 20+6 weeks. Extra scans are added when there is a medical reason, such as bleeding, twins, high blood pressure or concern about growth.

The table below summarises the common pregnancy scans by trimester and what each one answers.

Your obstetrician decides which of these you need; you do not have to have every scan. Our article on the pregnancy ultrasound schedule in Nepal explains the week-by-week plan in more detail.

First trimester scans: early, dating and NT scans

First-trimester scans confirm that the pregnancy is healthy and in the right place, set an accurate due date and, if you choose, provide the NT measurement for screening.

Early pregnancy and viability scan (about 6–10 weeks)

An early pregnancy scan checks that the pregnancy is inside the womb, shows the baby’s heartbeat and tells you whether there is more than one baby. Some women have it around seven to eight weeks, and at this stage it is usually done transvaginally — with a slim probe placed gently in the vagina — because the pregnancy is still very small (Cleveland Clinic). Doctors commonly request it for bleeding, pain, a previous miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, or uncertain dates. At KDRC early transvaginal scans are explained in detail on our 3D TVS (transvaginal ultrasound) page.

Dating scan (about 8–14 weeks)

The dating scan measures the baby from head to bottom to work out how many weeks pregnant you are and your estimated date of delivery. The NHS says the dating scan usually takes about 20 minutes and also checks the number of babies, that the baby is growing in the right place and early development. Your due date from the first period may be adjusted to match the ultrasound measurements, so keep this report safe — every later scan is compared with it.

NT scan (nuchal translucency scan, 11–14 weeks)

The NT scan measures the small collection of fluid under the skin at the back of the baby’s neck, and together with a blood test it forms the combined screening test for Down’s, Edwards’ and Patau’s syndromes (NHS). It can only be done in a narrow window, between 11+2 and 14+1 weeks according to NICE, so book early. A screening result gives a chance, not a diagnosis: a higher-chance result leads to a discussion with your obstetrician about further tests. If the scan happens after 14 weeks, a different blood test between 14 and 20 weeks is offered instead.

Patients in Pokhara often search for an “NT scan near me”. At KDRC, the NT measurement is taken during a careful first-trimester scan that also confirms dates and the number of babies; please tell us your last period date when booking so we can schedule the right week.

Second trimester: the anomaly scan (18–22 weeks)

The anomaly scan is the most important scan of mid-pregnancy: a detailed Level II ultrasound that examines the baby’s brain, face, spine, heart, abdomen, kidneys and limbs, and records where the placenta lies. NICE recommends it between 18+0 and 20+6 weeks, to screen for fetal anomalies and determine placental location (NICE NG201). Because it deserves a full explanation of its own — what it checks, what it can and cannot detect, and what happens if something is found — we cover it on our anomaly scan in Pokhara page. You can also read what an anomaly scan checks.

Anomaly scans at KDRC are available any day of the week, which makes it easier to fit the scan into the right window. A uterine artery Doppler check may be added around this time if your doctor considers you at higher risk of a small baby (RCOG).

Third trimester: growth and well-being scans

A growth scan measures the baby’s head, abdomen and thigh bone to estimate weight, and checks the amniotic fluid, placenta and the baby’s position in late pregnancy. It is not routine for every woman: NICE advises against routine scans after 28 weeks in uncomplicated single pregnancies, and instead recommends a growth scan when the bump (symphysis–fundal height) measures small or large, or when there are other concerns (NICE NG201).

Common reasons for a growth scan include high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia, diabetes, a previous small baby, reduced baby movements, bleeding, twins, or a bump that is not growing as expected. A baby whose estimated weight is below the 10th centile is described as small for gestational age (RCOG), and your doctor may then plan closer monitoring.

A growth and well-being report contains a standard set of measurements, each with a clear purpose.

Estimated weight on ultrasound has a margin of error, so trends across two or more scans matter more than a single number. If breech is suspected after 36 weeks, NICE recommends an ultrasound to confirm the baby’s position (NICE NG201). Our guide on how to read an ultrasound report explains other common terms.

Fetal Doppler: checking blood flow to the baby

A fetal Doppler scan measures blood flow in the umbilical cord, the baby’s brain and the vessels that supply the placenta, to judge how well the placenta is feeding the baby. It is usually added to a growth scan when the baby is small or there is a risk such as pre-eclampsia. The RCOG describes three common checks:

• Uterine artery Doppler — blood flow to the placenta, usually around 20 weeks, for women at higher risk of a small baby.
• Umbilical artery Doppler — blood flow through the cord; helps decide whether the baby may need closer monitoring or earlier delivery.
• Middle cerebral artery (MCA) Doppler — blood flow in the baby’s brain, used with other measurements in growth restriction and some twin complications.

Doppler uses more energy than a standard scan, so our radiologists use it only when it is clinically needed and keep it brief, following the ALARA principle. For Doppler studies outside pregnancy — veins, arteries, carotids — see our colour Doppler in Pokhara page, and read what a Doppler test is.

Scans in twin pregnancy

Twin pregnancies need more scans than single pregnancies, and the schedule depends on whether the babies share a placenta. NICE recommends a first-trimester scan to date the pregnancy and determine chorionicity — whether there are one or two placentas — ideally at the same visit (NICE NG137).

• Twins sharing one placenta (monochorionic): ultrasound monitoring every 14 days from 16 weeks until birth, looking for twin-to-twin transfusion, growth differences and fluid imbalance.
• Twins with separate placentas (dichorionic): growth monitoring from 24 weeks at intervals of no more than 28 days.
• All twins: a full anomaly scan for each baby, and a single cervical length scan between 16 and 20 weeks.

NICE also advises not to use 3D ultrasound to decide chorionicity, which is why this is assessed carefully in 2D early in pregnancy. Please tell us you are expecting twins when you book so we can allow extra time; each baby is examined and measured separately.

3D, 4D and 5D views of your baby

3D and 4D imaging add lifelike pictures of your baby’s face and movements to a pregnancy scan, but the medical assessment is always done in standard 2D. 2D gives the most accurate measurements and views of internal organs; 3D can help the radiologist look at the face, lips and limbs from extra angles, and 4D shows movement in real time. “5D” is a marketing name for more realistic, automated rendering, not a fifth physical dimension.

The US FDA discourages ultrasound done only to make keepsake images, so at KDRC these views are captured alongside a medically indicated scan or briefly by the sonologist. The best timing, what AI-assisted rendering adds and its limits are explained on our 4D ultrasound with AI and 5D ultrasound page and in our article on 4D ultrasound in pregnancy.

How to prepare for a pregnancy scan

Preparation for a fetal ultrasound is simple and depends mainly on how many weeks pregnant you are. You do not need to fast for any routine pregnancy scan.

The NHS notes that a full bladder may be needed for the dating scan because it makes the image clearer. Wear loose two-piece clothing and avoid creams or oils on your tummy on the day.

What happens during a fetal ultrasound at KDRC?

During a fetal ultrasound you lie on a couch in a dimly lit room while warm gel is applied to your tummy and a probe is moved over it to show your baby on the screen. A scan usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes, and longer if the baby is lying in an awkward position (NHS). Slight pressure on the tummy may be needed for the best views. A partner or family member may sit with you.

If you are in Pokhara and cannot travel because of illness or bed rest, ask about our mobile (home) ultrasound service.

Results, your report and the baby’s sex

The radiologist usually explains the main findings at the end of the scan, and a written report follows for your obstetrician. Same-day reports are available for most ultrasound examinations at KDRC; our team will tell you when to collect yours. Most scans show a baby developing normally, but no scan can detect every condition, so keep attending your antenatal check-ups (NHS).

If something needs a closer look, your doctor may arrange a repeat scan, a Doppler study or a referral to a fetal medicine specialist. Images and reports can be shared with referring hospitals through our teleradiology service.

We do not disclose the baby’s sex. In Nepal, Section 188 of the Muluki Criminal Code (National Penal Code) 2074 prohibits identifying fetal sex with the intention of abortion and prohibits sex-selective abortion. KDRC does not determine or disclose fetal sex on any pregnancy scan; please do not ask our staff to do so.

Is fetal ultrasound safe for my baby?

Yes — fetal ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and the NHS states there are no known risks to the baby or the mother from a pregnancy scan. Ultrasound can slightly warm tissue, so the FDA recommends the ALARA principle — “as low as reasonably achievable” — with scans done for a medical reason by trained professionals. Our radiologists use appropriate settings, limit Doppler to what is clinically needed and do not prolong scanning without reason. Read more in Is ultrasound safe?.

Do not use a home Doppler heartbeat monitor to reassure yourself. The NHS warns that hearing a heartbeat at home does not mean the baby is well; a change in movements needs a proper check.

Go to your nearest maternity emergency department straight away if you have heavy vaginal bleeding, severe or one-sided tummy pain, leaking fluid, a severe headache with blurred vision or swelling, fever, or if your baby is moving less than usual or has stopped moving. Call 061-553538 or 9856077433 for our ambulance in Pokhara.

How much does a fetal ultrasound cost in Pokhara?

The cost of a fetal ultrasound in Pokhara depends on the type of scan, so KDRC quotes each one individually rather than listing a fixed rate. Factors include the stage of pregnancy and scan type (dating, NT, growth), whether fetal Doppler is requested, whether you are carrying twins, and whether 3D/4D views are added. Prices are reviewed from time to time. For the current price, call 061-553538 or 9856077433 (Viber).

Why choose KDRC for fetal ultrasound in Pokhara?

Families choose KDRC for pregnancy scans because one centre covers the whole pregnancy, with HD 3D/4D ultrasound, consultant radiologists and anomaly scans any day of the week.

• Every pregnancy scan in one place: early and dating scans, NT scans, the anomaly scan, growth scans, fetal Doppler and twin monitoring.
• HD ultrasound with 3D and 4D, plus colour Doppler when your doctor requests it.
• Consultant radiologists: Dr. Bishworaj Bastakoti and Dr. Nawaraj Paudel report the scans. See our doctors page.
• Same-day reports for most ultrasound examinations, so you can see your obstetrician sooner.
• Ethical practice: we follow Nepal’s law and do not disclose fetal sex.

KDRC is at Shantipath, Amarsingh Chowk, Pokhara-10, Kaski — easy to reach from Lakeside, Bagar, Prithvi Chowk or Lekhnath. Book your fetal ultrasound online, call 061-553538 or 9856077433, or visit our contact page for directions. For other scans, see our ultrasound (USG) in Pokhara hub, read about the types of ultrasound scan, or browse all KDRC services.