REPORTS FROM THE SWEDISH COUNCIL ON TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT IN HEALTH CARE (SBU)

Abstract

Ultrasound examination in conjunction with pregnancy was introduced nearly 25 years ago. At the outset, this technology was used mainly in cases of suspected morbidity or fetal malformation. As ultrasound technology has advanced, the indications for this type of examination have also expanded, and all pregnant women in Sweden are now offered an ultrasound examination at least once during their pregnancy. In Sweden an average of slightly more than two ultrasound examinations are performed per pregnant woman, including examinations performed for medical indications. More than 95% of women who deliver have undergone routine ultrasound examination.