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Routine ultrasonography in utero and speech development.
K A Salvesen1, L J Vatten, L S Bakketeig
1National Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Medical Center, Trondheim, Norway.
Summary
Routine prenatal ultrasonography (ultrasound) is not linked to delayed speech in children. This study found no significant differences in speech development between screened and unscreened children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Development
- Prenatal Medicine
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Concerns exist regarding the potential impact of routine prenatal ultrasonography on child development.
- Understanding the long-term effects of in utero imaging is crucial for evidence-based obstetric practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate any association between prenatal ultrasonography and the incidence of delayed speech in children.
- To evaluate the impact of routine ultrasound screening during pregnancy on speech development outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A follow-up study involving 2161 children from two randomized controlled trials of routine prenatal ultrasonography.
- Data collection included parental questionnaires on speech development and review of maternal and child health center records.
- Comparison of speech development milestones and referrals to speech therapy between ultrasound-exposed and control groups.
Main Results:
- Parental assessments showed no significant differences in speech development between the groups.
- Health center records indicated screened children were less likely to be referred for speech therapy (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.31-0.85).
- No other significant differences in speech development were reported in health center records.
Conclusions:
- Routine prenatal ultrasonography does not appear to be associated with delayed speech in children.
- The findings suggest that in utero ultrasound screening is safe concerning speech development outcomes.
- Further research may explore other developmental aspects, but current evidence supports the safety of routine prenatal ultrasounds for speech development.