Nulliparous women's experiences with a first trimester ultrasound scan: A qualitative study

<h2>Abstract</h2><h3>Objective</h3> The Norwegian Parliament decided that a first trimester ultrasound scan would be offered to all pregnant women starting in 2022. The aim of this study was to explore nulliparous women's experiences with this new public healthcare service. <h3>Research question</h3> What are the experiences of nulliparous women with the first trimester ultrasound scan? <h3>Methods</h3> The study had a qualitative design, including twelve interviews with nulliparous women who recently had a first trimester ultrasound scan. The data were analysed using systematic text condensation. <h3>Results</h3> The main findings from the study were: 1) How the midwife or obstetrician who performed the scan interacted with the women impacted how the women experienced the examination. 2) The visualisation of the fetus was an emotional experience for the women, where normal findings provided reassurance while uncertain findings could lead to concerns and possible ethical dilemmas, and 3) the women received differing information in connection with the first trimester ultrasound scan. The examinations were of varying duration and the routines for determining due dates and signing concent forms differed. <h3>Conclusion</h3> The women appreciated that the first trimester ultrasound scan had become a public offering in Norway. How they were met and the findings of the examination held significance for how the women experienced the scan. The management of the ultrasound scan was not standardised in the different hospitals. The study indicates a need for evidence-based national guidelines which are followed to ensure an equal service to all pregnant women in Norway.