Prenatal Ultrasound

Prenatal Ultrasound

Prenatal ultrasound exam, also called a sonogram, is an imaging test that allows your health care provider to see your baby and placenta in the uterus. This is a safe and painless test that does not expose you or your baby to any X-rays, needles, or medicines.

Prenatal ultrasounds are done using a handheld plastic device (transducer) that sends out sound waves (ultrasound). The sound waves reflect off your baby’s bones and other tissues to create moving images on a computer screen. There are two types of prenatal ultrasound:

  • Transabdominal ultrasound. During this test, a transducer is placed on your belly and moved around. A routine transabdominal ultrasound is usually done between weeks 18 and 22 of pregnancy (standard ultrasound). It may also be done between weeks 13 and 14.
  • Transvaginal ultrasound. During this test, a transducer that is shaped like a wand is placed inside your vagina. This type of ultrasound is usually done during early pregnancy.

Prenatal ultrasounds may be used to check:

  • How far along your pregnancy is (stage).
  • Your baby’s development (gestational age).
  • The location and condition of the organ that supplies your baby with nourishment and oxygen (placenta).
  • Your baby’s heart rate, position, and movements.
  • Your baby’s approximate size and weight.
  • The amount of fluid surrounding your baby (amniotic fluid).
  • If you are carrying more than one baby.
  • Your baby’s sex (if your baby is in a position that allows the sex organs to be seen, and if you choose to learn the sex at this time).
  • If there are any possible problems that require more testing, such as genetic problems.
  • If your pregnancy is forming outside your uterus (ectopic pregnancy).

You may have other ultrasounds as needed at any point during your pregnancy. If your health care provider suspects a problem, you may also have a more detailed type of transabdominal ultrasound (advanced ultrasound).

What are the risks?

Generally, this is a safe test. There are no known risks for you or your baby from a prenatal ultrasound.

What happens before the test?

  • Before a transabdominal ultrasound, you may be asked to drink fluid 2 hours before the exam and avoid emptying your bladder. A full bladder helps the images show up more clearly.
  • Before a transvaginal ultrasound, you may be asked to empty your bladder before the exam.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing so it is easy to undress or expose your lower belly for the exam.

What happens during the test?

If you are having a transabdominal ultrasound:

  • You will lie on an exam table.
  • Your belly will be exposed.
  • Gel will be rubbed over your belly.
  • The transducer will be pressed on your belly and moved back and forth, through the gel. You may feel slight pressure, but there should not be any pain.
  • You may be asked to change your position.
  • You may hear sounds of blood flow and your baby’s heartbeat. You may be able to see images of your baby on the computer screen. Your health care provider may measure your baby’s head and other body parts, looking for normal development.
  • After the exam, the gel will be cleaned off, and you can replace your clothing. You will be able to empty your bladder after the exam is done.

If you are having a transvaginal ultrasound:

  • You will change into a hospital gown or undress from the waist down and cover yourself with a paper sheet.
  • You will lie down on an exam table with your feet in footrests (stirrups).
  • The transducer will be covered with a protective cover and lubricated.
  • The transducer will be inserted into your vagina.
  • You may hear sounds of blood flow and your baby’s heartbeat. You may be able to see images of your baby on the computer screen.
  • After the exam, the transducer will be removed, and you can put your clothes back on.

What can I expect after the test?

  • You can drive yourself home and return to all your normal activities.
  • A health care provider trained in interpreting ultrasounds will review the images taken during your exam and send a report to your health care provider.
  • It is up to you to get your test results. Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test, when your results will be ready.

Questions to ask your health care provider

  • Why am I having this prenatal ultrasound?
  • What information will this exam provide?
  • How much does this exam cost? What costs will my insurance cover?
  • Can my partner or support person be with me during the exam?
  • When can I expect to get the results?

Summary

  • A prenatal ultrasound is a safe and painless imaging exam that gives information about your pregnancy and your developing baby.
  • Transvaginal ultrasound exams are often done in early pregnancy. Standard transabdominal ultrasounds are typically done between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. You may have other prenatal ultrasounds as needed.
  • This exam has no risks for you or your baby. After the exam, you can go home and return to all your usual activities.
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