Ultrasound
An ultrasound is a technique that uses sound waves to study and treat hard-to-reach body areas. In scanning with ultrasound, high-frequency sound waves are transmitted to the abdomen or uterus, and the returning echoes are recorded. At times, a probe is inserted into the vagina to get a better image (transvaginal ultrasounds).
An ultrasound may be ordered because you have excessive bleeding or pelvic pain. If you are pregnant, an ultrasound may be ordered to determine your baby’s size or weight, or as a diagnostic test if you are having problems with your pregnancy. Please be aware that an ultrasound cannot detect all potential problems with an unborn baby, so you should never interpret a normal prenatal ultrasound exam as a guarantee that you are going to have a normal baby.
For the convenience of our patients, Women's Care offers in-house ultrasound. All of our physicians and ultrasound staff are certified by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.
A full bladder is required for most people having an ultrasound exam. To ensure a properly full bladder, FINISH DRINKING AT LEAST 24 OUNCES OF WATER (or juice if no dietary restrictions) 1 HOUR before your appointment time. Do not drink any caffeinated or carbonated beverages as substitutes for water because they give you a greater urgency to urinate. If you have not done the proper preparation, you may be asked to reschedule your appointment.
Although we do our best to remain on time, there are situations where your appointment may be slightly delayed. If, when you arrive, you are in pain or feel overfull, please let the reception desk know and you may be able to partly empty to relieve the pressure. If you have had plenty to drink, your bladder will fill again if need be.
Due to the size of our ultrasound room, we cannot have more than two people accompany the patient into the ultrasound room. In addition, it is our policy to prohibit the use of audio or video tape recording during the exam.
For more information on ultrasounds please click the link below:
Ultrasound: http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq025.pdf