Legacy Obstetrics & Gynecology

OB ULTRASOUND.

An OB Ultrasound is a special test that uses sound waves to look at the fetus. Your ultrasound will be conducted by a diagnostic medical sonorgrapher and your test results will be evaluated by a physician.

SPECIAL PREPARATIONS:

One hour before your ultrasound, drink approximately one to two quarts of water. You will need to hold the urine in your bladder until after the ultrasound. A very full bladder will allow the sonographer to view the anatomy of the fetus better.

ULTRASOUND PROCEDURE:

You will be asked to sign in at the admissions desk. After signing in, the sonographer will call you back and take you to a Special Procedure Room. Once you enter the Special Procedure Room, you will be asked to sit on a table to prepare for your ultrasound. A warm, hypo-allergenic, non-staining gel will be applied to the abdomen. A small scanner will be moved across your abdomen to create different views of the fetus. The only discomfort you may feel during the ultrasound will be the fullness of your bladder. This is normal, but it is important to wait until after the ultrasound to urinate, so the sonographer can obtain the best images possible. We may also place an ultrasound probe into the vagina to view the uterus and ovaries.

WHY WE DO ULTRASOUNDS:

Ultrasounds are done to determine the gestational age of the fetus. Certain tests are performed based upon the specific and accurate dates of the pregnancy. Another indication would be to determine any abnormal anatomy of the fetus. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ARE ULTRASOUNDS DONE TO DETERMINE THE SEX OF THE BABY. Insurance Companies do not reimburse for sex determination. If you are interested in determining the sex of your baby, please ask beforehand.

ULTRASOUND RESULTS:

After your ultrasound, your sonographer will prepare a written report that will be evaluated by a physician. The physician will discuss the ultrasound results with you on your next prenatal visit.

CHILDREN:

The Special Procedure Room is not child proof. CHILDREN ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE OFFICE ON THE DAY OF YOUR ULTRASOUND. You must reschedule if you bring children to your appointment.

SIGNIFICANT OTHERS:

Space is limited in the office; therefore, ONLY ONE ADULT IS ALLOWED to come with you for your ultrasound. You must reschedule your appointment if more than one person comes with you to your appointment.

Back