Are there risks to ultrasound?
In the last 30 years, no conclusive evidence has shown that the levels of ultrasound used on humans are harmful. However some animal studies with higher levels of ultrasound have indicated changes in cell structure or function and even cell death. These studies seem to indicate that the tissue or body part that was being examined under the high frequency waves was altered in some way.
As a result the NIH has released the following statement, “ultrasound examination in pregnancy should be performed for a specific medical indication.”
Perhaps one of the biggest risks of ultrasound is the chance of identifying something “outside the normal range” with the baby and the inevitable invasive tests, such as amniocentesis that result. More often than not, these “unusual” findings either resolve on their own or turn out to be normal by the time the baby is born. You can imagine that the stress parents experience during this time of waiting and wondering is never beneficial!
As with any other prenatal test, be sure that you have a very good reason for getting an ultrasound and with regard to safety and multiple ultrasounds, less is definitely more!