Ultrasound Imaging: Myths vs Facts

Ultrasound scans have become a routine part of prenatal care, offering a window into your baby’s development. Despite their widespread use and proven benefits, there remains some public concern about whether having too many ultrasounds could pose risks to the baby’s health. Misinformation and myths often fuel these worries, making it difficult to separate fact from fiction. 

In this article, we explore the science behind prenatal ultrasounds, address common misconceptions, and provide evidence-based insights from trusted medical authorities to help you understand the true safety profile of these essential imaging tests.

Myth 1: Too Many Ultrasounds Can Harm the Baby or Cause Birth Defects

Fact: There is no scientific evidence that diagnostic ultrasounds, even when performed frequently, cause birth defects or harm the developing fetus. It is crucial to note that, unlike X-rays which use ionizing radiation,  ultrasounds utilize high-frequency sound waves to create images of the baby in the womb. 

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), ultrasounds are considered safe when medically indicated and performed by trained professionals.

A comprehensive World Health Organization (WHO) systematic review found no association between prenatal ultrasound exposure and adverse maternal or perinatal outcomes, impaired physical or neurological development, childhood malignancy, or intellectual disabilities.

Similarly, a long-term Australian study published in The Lancet followed children exposed to repeated ultrasounds and found no differences in physical size, speech, language, behavior, or neurological development compared to those who had only one ultrasound.

Myth 2: Ultrasounds Can Cause Cancer or Tumors

Fact: As noted above, ultrasounds do not expose the fetus to radiation. The energy used in diagnostic ultrasound is not strong enough to cause DNA mutations or cancer. Decades of use and research have shown no link between prenatal ultrasound exposure and the development of tumors or cancer in children.

Myth 3: Frequent Ultrasounds Affect the Baby’s Brain Development

Fact: Both 2D and 3D ultrasounds have been studied extensively, with no evidence showing harm to the developing brain. The ACOG and numerous studies confirm that ultrasound waves do not alter brain structure or function. The WHO review noted only a weak association between ultrasound exposure and non-right-handedness in boys, but no evidence of neurological impairment.

Fact: Ultrasounds Should Be Used When Medically Indicated

While ultrasounds are safe, leading medical organizations recommend their use only when medically necessary. The FDA advises against non-medical ultrasounds, such as those performed solely for keepsake images or videos, due to the lack of clinical oversight and potential for unnecessary exposure. When performed by trained professionals for valid medical reasons, the benefits of ultrasound far outweigh any theoretical risks. (Learn more)

How Many Ultrasounds Are Recommended?

Most guidelines recommend three key ultrasounds during a healthy pregnancy:

• Weeks 12–14: To confirm gestational age and screen for chromosomal abnormalities.

• Weeks 21–24: To assess organ development and detect structural anomalies.

• Weeks 30–32: To monitor late-stage development, fetal position, and predict delivery needs.

Additional scans may be warranted if complications arise or if closer monitoring is needed.

While the physical risks are minimal, overusing ultrasounds can lead to unnecessary anxiety, increased healthcare costs, and time burdens. Excessive keepsake scans, especially those performed outside of medical settings, are discouraged by the FDA and other health authorities. (Learn more)

Conclusion

Ultrasounds are a safe, essential tool in prenatal care when used appropriately. Myths about their dangers are not supported by scientific evidence. The consensus among global health authorities is clear: routine, medically indicated ultrasounds do not harm the baby or mother. However, ultrasounds should be performed judiciously and by qualified professionals to maximize benefits and minimize any theoretical risks.