Ultrasound scanning in pregnancy: Consumer reactions

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Abstract
This study assessed the reactions of pregnant women who received ultrasound examination during their pregnancy. The subjects included 30 women who were diagnosed to have raised serum alpha foetoprotein (AFP) in a previous bloodtest and ultrasound scanning was therefore performed to further diagnose foetal abnormalities. Another 30 pregnant women receiving routine scanning for dates also served as subjects. The women were interviewed before and immediately after scanning and a questionnaire was sent to them four weeks after the examination. Results indicated that following scanning the subjects rated the procedure to be less distressing or less physically uncomfortable than they had initially expected. Most of them described the experience as ‘wonderful’ and ‘fine’. The follow-up opinion survey further confirmed that the women were satisfied with the procedures. Their responses highlighted the importance of giving feedback and allowing time to talk to the doctors when such an obstetric procedure was carried out.

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