What is the primary purpose of prenatal ultrasonography?

The primary purpose of prenatal ultrasonography is to assess fetal growth and anatomy. This imaging technique allows healthcare providers to visualize the developing fetus in real time, facilitating the examination of various anatomical structures and confirming growth parameters such as fetal size, limb development, and organ formation. Early detection of any abnormalities can significantly influence management strategies and outcomes for both the mother and the fetus.

While monitoring maternal health, detecting preterm labor, and evaluating placental function are important aspects of prenatal care, these are not the main objectives of ultrasonography. Maternal health monitoring often involves routine exams, blood tests, and other assessments not solely reliant on imaging. Detecting preterm labor typically requires different forms of assessment, such as regular observation of contractions and cervical changes. Evaluating placental function involves additional testing, like Doppler ultrasound, which can provide insights but is a subset of broader ultrasound applications aimed primarily at understanding fetal growth and anatomy.