Obstetrical Scans

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an OB ultrasound?

An obstetric (OB) ultrasound is an exam performed during pregnancy to ensure that your baby is growing and developing normally in the womb. It uses sound waves to create pictures of the baby, as well as the mother’s ovaries and uterus. This test is not harmful to the mother or baby and is the preferred method of monitoring pregnant women.

Is prenatal ultrasound safe?

Yes. There are no known risks associated with prenatal ultrasound. This procedure uses sound waves to create images, which are different than X-rays.

Can ultrasounds be wrong?

As with any test, there’s a possibility of error when it comes to a high-frequency ultrasound. These reasons can include factors like an incorrect gestation period, obesity or other health concerns, and technician error.

What does second-trimester ultrasound look for?

As a routine part of your second-trimester care, a high-frequency ultrasound will check your baby’s vital organs and growth to ensure everything is developing normally. It will also check fetal anatomy, the placenta, and amniotic fluid.  This ultrasound can be performed transabdominally or transvaginally, based on your specific care needs.

Are ultrasound growth scans accurate?

Growth scans can be an important way to judge what kind of care you and your baby will need during labor and beyond. Although ultrasound technology has advanced greatly, there can still be factors that affect the accuracy of growth scans including obesity and technician error. In some cases, not all birth defects can be detected, and some abnormalities are too small to be seen.

When can an ultrasound determine the sex of my baby?

Yes, the gender of your baby can reliably be determined at 18-20 weeks gestation during an ultrasound. Be sure to let your sonographer know if you would like to know the sex of your baby, as some parents prefer to keep their child’s gender a secret until birth.

What is the difference between a topical and transvaginal ultrasound?

Topical ultrasounds are performed on the surface of the skin, while transvaginal ultrasounds are performed using a special probe that is inserted into the vaginal canal. The ultrasound technique that is used for you will depend on the reason for your ultrasound and how far along you are in your pregnancy.

When will I receive my ultrasound results?

Your healthcare provider may discuss your results directly following your ultrasound. However, in some cases, it may take a couple of days for your provider to review the ultrasound images and discuss their findings with you. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your ultrasound, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office.

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