Ultrasound

How does ultrasound technology work?

Ultrasound technology essentially uses sound waves to create images of your internal tissues. The process is simple, straightforward, and does not require any form of anesthesia. There’s no pain and no risk of harm to you or your baby. 

During your visit, you’ll recline on the exam table. A clear gel is applied to your belly to help the handheld transducer glide over your skin and enhance the imaging. Your practitioner moves the transducer across your belly, placing gentle pressure on your skin. 

That transducer emits sound waves that pass through your body. As the waves strike various tissues, they bounce back and are collected by the transducer. Those echoes allow ultrasound technology to create images of your internal organs and structures, including your developing baby. 

At what point during pregnancy should I have an ultrasound?

Your obstetrician will likely perform an ultrasound during your first trimester. This timing fulfills several goals, including:

• Confirming the pregnancy
• Checking for ectopic pregnancy
• Looking for multiples
• Narrow down your due date
• Check for developmental markers
• Assess your uterus, placenta, and cervix

You might also have one or more ultrasounds in your second and third trimesters. These ultrasounds allow the following:

• Determining the sex of your baby
• Checking for genetic or developmental abnormalities
• Measuring your levels of amniotic fluid
• Screening for problems like placenta previa or placental abruption
• Ensuring your baby is getting enough oxygen

Of course, ultrasounds also allow you to “see” your little one and receive that important first photo of your baby. Bethany Women’s Healthcare offers 3D/4D ultrasound technology to create incredibly clear and detailed imaging. 

How is ultrasound used in gynecology?

Though ultrasound imaging is usually associated with pregnancy care, this technology also has numerous applications in gynecology. When your gynecologist is working to determine the cause of symptoms, ultrasound is a simple and inexpensive starting point. 

In addition to using the handheld transducer to collect images from the abdomen and pelvis region, there is also a transvaginal ultrasound option. The process is similar, except the transducer is a comfortable wand placed inside the vagina. 

Some of the uses of ultrasound technology in gynecology include:

• Detecting uterine fibroids
• Screening for endometriosis
• Assessing blood flow through pelvic organs
• Screening for bladder issues
• Evaluating tumors, cysts, or other masses in or near pelvic organs
• Checking the placement of an intrauterine device (IUD)

If your gynecologist feels an ultrasound is a good fit for your needs, you’ll learn more about what to expect, how to prepare, as well as other options. 

Booking an appointment for an ultrasound can be done over the phone or online.