The role of ultrasound in obstetrics

Abstract Advances in ultrasound technology and new developments in the field of screening for pregnancy disorders have led to a change in the clinical application of ultrasound in the routine care of low-risk pregnant women. In parallel, there has been an increased tendency to inappropriately use this technology. This review highlights the validated uses of ultrasound in obstetrics, such as pregnancy dating, screening for aneuploidy, diagnosis of fetal abnormality and placental localisation. Knowledge of the scientific basis of the role of ultrasound means less unnecessary intervention in normal pregnancies and more appropriately timed intervention in pathological pregnancies.