Some pregnant women are advised to drink fluids before an ultrasound to fill the bladder, making the image of the fetus clearer.
However, recently, there has been information circulating on social networks that drinking a small glass of orange juice 30 minutes before an ultrasound can " awaken" the fetus, causing more movement and helping to have better ultrasound results, supporting the doctor to record clear images. However, health experts say this needs to be considered carefully.
Dr. Mansi Sharma, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Motherhood Hospital (India), said that drinking liquid, including water, really helps push the uterus up by filling the bladder. This is especially helpful in the first trimester.
However, she warned that orange juice is acidic and can cause discomfort if pregnant women are heartbroken or have a bloating belly.
According to Dr. Tripti Raheja, an obstetrician and gynecologist at CK Birla Hospital (India), orange juice can help with ultrasounds in the second and third trimester.
"A small amount of orange juice can provide quick energy, stimulating your baby to move gently if he or she is in a difficult-to-see position," Ms. Raheja said, noting that orange juice is not always the ideal choice. Pre-buy juice often contains a lot of sugar, easily causing the fetus to move excessively, making it difficult to record clearly.
Pregnant women are advised to drink water instead of orange juice before an ultrasound, because the filter water is lighter for the stomach and helps the ultrasound image become clearer, Dr. Sharma recommends.
In addition to orange juice, other sweets such as chocolate and glucose juice can also have a similar effect if needed to stimulate the fetus to move. However, people with gestational diabetes or sugar sensitivity should avoid consuming orange juice or sweets before the ultrasound.
Experts agree that what to drink before an ultrasound should be considered depending on your health condition and your doctor's advice.
If you are uncertain, it is best to consult an obstetrician for specific guidance, Dr. Sharma emphasized.
