Ultrasound imaging is vital in the evaluation of a number of obstetrical and gynecological conditions.

We routinely perform in office first, second and third trimester obstetrical ultrasounds, as well as biophysical profile. Saline sonohysterogram is available to gynecology patients.

Overview
Pregnancy ultrasound is a method of imaging the fetus and the female pelvic organs during pregnancy. The ultrasound machine sends out high-frequency sound waves which bounce off body structures to create a picture.

There is no definitive rule as to the number of scans a woman should have during her pregnancy. Some physicians will order an ultrasound when an abnormality is suspected on clinical grounds, while others advocate screening ultrasounds.

Scans may be performed in the first trimester to:

• Confirm a normal intra-uterine pregnancy

• Assess fetal age

• Exclude abnormalities such as ectopic pregnancies or potential for miscarriage

• Assess fetal heart activity

• Determine the presence of multiple pregnancies

• Identify abnormalities of the placenta, uterus, and other pelvic structures

Scans may also be obtained in the second trimester to:

• Confirm pregnancy dates

• Determine the number of fetuses and examine placental structures

• Evaluate the fetal anatomy for presence of abnormalities

• Check the amount of amniotic fluid

• Examine blood flow patterns

• Observe fetal behavior and activity

• Examine the placenta

• Measure the length of the cervix

• Monitor fetal growth

Scans in the third trimester may be done to:

• Monitor fetal growth

• Check the amount of amniotic fluid

• Be part of other testing such as the biophysical profile

• Determine the position of a fetus

• Assess the placenta

Some centers are now performing a scan at around 13-14 weeks of pregnancy to screen for findings that may represent a risk for Down Syndrome (a type of chromosomal defect which causes mental retardation) or other developmental abnormalities in the fetus.

The total number of scans will vary depending on whether a previous scan or blood tests have detected abnormalities that require follow-up assessment.

Preparation before the procedure
Since a full bladder is necessary for improved imaging, you may be asked to drink 2 to 3 glasses of liquid 1 hour before the test. You should not urinate before the examination.