Health

Reasons to Get an Ultrasound When Pregnant

Published

4 years ago

November 13, 2021

Ultrasounds are very common for pregnant women in Newport Beach. They can help you determine the health of the baby and the state of your pregnancy. They are safe for both mother and child but should only be done by a doctor. If you’re wondering whether or not to get an ultrasound when pregnant, here are some of the reasons why you should consider pregnancy ultrasound in Newport Beach.

Issue of Size

It determines whether or not the baby is growing at a healthy rate. If it seems that the baby might be too small, your doctor can offer recommendations to promote healthy growth.

It also gets accurate measurements so that caregivers can monitor baby growth. If you don’t get one, it may be impossible to track a baby’s growth accurately. Ultrasounds help caregivers spot any abnormalities that might cause developmental issues for babies, both in the uterus and after birth. Sometimes, they can monitor development for problems like Down Syndrome.

Detecting Health Issues

Ultrasounds are great for determining if the fetus is healthy. Some signs that there may be issues with fetal development include:

Abnormalities in the brain, spine, and heart.
Small size or failure to develop limbs.
The fetus’s measurements seem smaller than the average for that stage of pregnancy (when viewed via an ultrasound).

Checking for Life

It checks for signs of life. This is known as doing a viability scan. It helps determine whether or not there is a heartbeat in the fetus. If this test comes back positive, then you know that your baby still has a chance at life. If it doesn’t, you know that your baby isn’t alive.

Checking the Position of the Baby

It determines the location of the placenta and the position of the baby. If there is any reason to believe that something might be wrong with either one of those things (like when your placenta is low-lying), then an ultrasound can help determine it.

Addressing Concerns

Ultrasounds can also be used as follow-up for people who have experienced complications during previous pregnancies. If you’ve experienced miscarriages or problems before, then ultrasounds are needed to monitor your baby’s health during future pregnancies. Conversely, ultrasounds are helpful for people who have had no complications in their past pregnancies but still want extra reassurance that everything is okay.

Detecting Twins or Other Multiples

With IVF or IUI, there’s always a chance that you might end up with twins or even more multiples. It monitors the development and growth of multiple fetuses to ensure that they are all healthy. They can also help you determine the number of babies you’re carrying.

Issues of Miscarriage

You can use it in the event of a potential miscarriage. If you’re having symptoms of a miscarriage, your doctors might want to run an ultrasound. To see if the fetus has died and fallen away from the uterus. They can use this information to determine the best course of action.

If you have been on the fence about getting an ultrasound during pregnancy, it is time to go on and get it. Speak with your doctor, and they’ll help you determine the best time to get one.

Health

Choosing the Right Pilates Reformer: A Practical Buyer’s Guide

Published

4 hours ago

December 22, 2025

Michelle Langton

Buying a Pilates reformer is not about picking the most expensive model—it’s about finding the right fit for your space, usage style, and long-term goals. Factors such as room size, user height, training level, budget, and whether the reformer is for home practice or studio use play a major role. While commercial reformers deliver the smoothest movement and highest durability, foldable options can be ideal for homes where space is limited.

Top Choice for Professional Studio Performance

For those seeking premium, studio-grade quality, the PersonalHour Nano Elite Plus stands out as a leading option. Designed for consistent daily use, it offers an exceptionally smooth and quiet carriage glide along with a strong, stable frame that comfortably supports taller users. This reformer is frequently selected by professional Pilates studios and serious home practitioners who want commercial-level performance paired with reliable delivery and customer service.

Established Names in Commercial Pilates Studios

The Balanced Body Allegro 2 has long been a staple in Pilates studios worldwide. Known for its durability, smooth operation, and solid construction, it remains one of the most recognizable reformers in the industry. Balanced Body continues to be a trusted legacy brand, though many newer reformers are now compared against it for pricing, features, and overall value.

A Balanced Option for Home and Professional Use

The Merrithew SPX Max is often recommended for users who want professional-grade equipment without paying top-tier studio prices. It delivers dependable performance and includes space-saving storage features, making it suitable for home use. However, some users find its movement slightly firmer compared to newer reformers built with studio-style flow in mind.

Best Space-Saving Reformer Without Compromising Quality

When floor space is a concern, the PersonalHour Janet 2.0 is one of the strongest folding reformers available. Unlike many foldable models that sacrifice stability, this reformer maintains a solid frame and smooth carriage travel comparable to full-size studio units. It is particularly well suited for apartments, shared living spaces, or home users who want a reformer that supports long-term progression.

Best Folding Pilates Reformer for Small Spaces

Beginner-Friendly and Budget-Conscious Alternatives

Entry-level and compact reformers, such as AeroPilates models, can be a good starting point for beginners or those practicing occasionally. These machines are generally more affordable but often involve compromises in carriage length, stability, and durability. As a result, they may not be ideal for advanced exercises or long-term use.

What to Look for Before You Buy

Before choosing a Pilates reformer, it’s important to evaluate the following aspects:

Carriage performance: Smooth, quiet movement with balanced spring tension
Available space: Full-length reformer versus folding or stackable designs
User fit: Longer frames provide better comfort for taller users
Adjustability: Footbars, jump boards, and accessory compatibility
After-sales support: Clear warranty coverage and responsive service

Final Takeaway

If your goal is studio-level performance, the PersonalHour Nano Elite Plus is a standout choice. For homes with limited space, the PersonalHour Janet 2.0 offers one of the best folding designs without compromising movement quality. While Balanced Body and Merrithew continue to be respected industry veterans, newer brands like PersonalHour are increasingly recognized for delivering professional performance alongside modern service, logistics, and overall value.

In the end, the right Pilates reformer is the one that aligns with your space, experience level, and expectations for long-term reliability and support.