Should ultrasound be routine in the third trimester?
Detecting small-for-gestational age babies did not reduce adverse outcomes, large Dutch trial finds
Having two extra ultrasound scans in the third trimester increases detection of babies that are small-for-gestational age, but does not reduce severe adverse perinatal outcomes, a Dutch trial shows.
The researchers said their findings did not support routine ultrasonography in the third trimester for low-risk pregnancies.
The clinical trial, known as IRIS, randomised more than 7000 women under midwife-led antenatal care to two extra ultrasound scans at 28-30 and 34-36 weeks’.
Meanwhile, nearly 6000 other women in the control arm received usual care from their midwives, with an ultrasound only performed in the third trimester if considered clinically required.
