Obstetric Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses sound waves and their echoes, rather than X-rays, to view internal anatomy. Thus, the patient is not exposed to ionizing radiation. Ultrasound also can provide information about structures that cannot be gathered by conventional X-ray. In most ultrasound examinations, a hand-held transducer and warm gel are placed on the patient's skin. The transducer is both a transmitter and receiver, sending sound waves to the tissues. The reflected echoes are displayed as a two-dimensional image on a video screen.

At 18-20 weeks, you are able to view many internal organs and structures of your baby and likely determine gender.

At 20-34 weeks, your baby is likely too large for a single screen, but key structures such as facial features are observable in breathtaking detail.

Past 34 weeks, 3D images are limited due to the decrease in amniotic fluid, but 2D images are still obtainable.

Like general ultrasound exams, obstetric ultrasound is conducted using sound waves and is radiation free. In the case of obstetric ultrasound, the anatomy of your unborn child can be depicted in amazing detail. Our 3D/4D capabilities allow for facial features and movement to be captured in real-time. The precious moments captured here are often the first-time expecting parents can see their child. Our caring technologists understand the complex emotions of these visits and are here to help you every step of the way.

First Trimester Screening (FTS) is available to all pregnant women who seek early reassurance about the health of their unborn baby. FTS is a combination of an ultrasound exam and a blood test. The ultrasound exam is performed between 11 weeks 1 day and 13 weeks 6 days gestational age. This study documents fetal age, heartbeat, presence or absence of the nasal bone, and thickness of the fluid-filled space at the back of the fetal neck called 'Nuchal Translucency.' The maternal blood sample is analyzed for two specific proteins (free Beta hCG and PAPP-A) by an outside medical genetics laboratory. It is the combination of the information from the ultrasound exam and the results from the laboratory which provides parents-to-be with an accurate risk assessment for the potential presence of certain chromosomal abnormalities.

Fasting is not required for an OB ultrasound exam. However, to accurately perform this study, it is important for your bladder to be full. Please do not empty your bladder beginning two hours prior to your examination. It is not necessary to drink any specific amount of water before your arrival. Detailed ultrasound preparations are also available on the patient preps page on this website.