WFUMB/ISUOG Policy Statement on Souvenir Imaging of the Fetus

The WFUMB disapproves of the use of ultrasound for the sole purpose of providing souvenir Images of the fetus. There have been no reported incidents of human fetal harm in over 40 years of extensive use of medically indicated and supervised diagnostic ultrasound. Nevertheless, ultrasound involves exposure to a form of energy, so there is the potential to initiate biological effects. Some of these effects might, under certain circumstances, be detrimental to the developing fetus. Therefore the uncontrolled use of ultrasound without medical benefit should be avoided. Furthermore, ultrasound should be employed only by health professionals who are trained and updated in ultrasound clinical usage and bioeffects.

Approved by WFUMB Administrative Council, October 2015