What is Ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a non-invasive way to study many of the organs of the body. Ultrasound is high frequency sound waves, which penetrate the body and bounce off the internal structures, giving an electronically produced picture on a screen. There is no radiation involved. Studies to date show that this type of examination has no known harmful effects.

Obstetrical ultrasound allows us to study the fetus while still in your uterus. Ultrasound can give a very complete physical evaluation of the pregnancy in general.

Procedure

While many people consider the OB ultrasound examination just another exciting part of pregnancy --- the chance to see your baby before it is born and possibly learn the sex so you can plan the nursery --- your doctor has ordered this study for medical reasons. In order to allow the technologist to concentrate fully and to perform the best clinical study for you, only one visitor will be allowed in the room with you during this study. Video cameras are not allowed. If you bring a blank videocassette, the technologist will record a few minutes of video film for you.

You will be asked to disrobe and put on a gown. The technologist will ask you to lie on a table and he or she will apply a gel to your skin. This will ensure that the transducer (the probe that emits the high frequency sound waves) has good contact for sound transmission. This transducer will be placed on your skin and will be moved over your pelvic area as the technologist records the various structures in your pelvic area. You should experience no pain or discomfort from this examination.

Post Exam

The radiologist will review your examination before you leave to make sure adequate images have been obtained. He will then interpret the images and send a written report to your doctor. Your doctor will discuss the results with you.