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OB Ultrasound

OB Ultrasound Services

An OB ultrasound, or pregnancy ultrasound, uses sound waves to create real-time images of your baby, allowing your provider to monitor fetal health, growth, and development, and the well-being of your uterus and ovaries.

At Moreland OB-GYN, our AIUM-accredited sonographers use the latest technology to ensure accurate, high-quality imaging. Your Moreland OB-GYN provider will interpret the results and discuss them with you.

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Why Are OB Ultrasounds Important?

Pregnancy ultrasounds allow your doctor to monitor and maintain your baby’s health throughout pregnancy. Depending on your stage of pregnancy, an OB ultrasound may help:

  • Confirm pregnancy and determine gestational age and due date
  • Check for multiple babies (twins, triplets, etc.)
  • Detect early pregnancy conditions like ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage risk
  • Monitor fetal growth, movement, and heart rate
  • Screen for congenital conditions or abnormalities
  • Assess the placenta, amniotic fluid levels, and pelvic organs

Types of OB Ultrasounds

There are two types of OB ultrasounds: transvaginal ultrasound and abdominal ultrasound. Both types are safe, painless, and essential for monitoring pregnancy progress.

  • Transvaginal Ultrasound – Typically used early in pregnancy, this ultrasound provides detailed images by inserting a small probe into the vaginal canal. It helps detect the baby’s heartbeat and confirm gestational age.

  • Abdominal Ultrasound – Performed after about 12 weeks, this scan involves applying gel to your abdomen and using a transducer to capture images of your baby.

Your Moreland OB-GYN provider or one of our trusted sonographers will discuss the type of ultrasound that will be performed and exactly what to expect throughout the exam.

How Many Pregnancy Ultrasounds Will I Have?

Your provider may order an OB Ultrasound at any point in your pregnancy, depending on the information they seek. Typically, you will experience one or two OB ultrasounds during your pregnancy:

  • Early Ultrasound (7–12 weeks) – Confirms pregnancy, checks for multiples, and determines gestational age.

  • Anatomy Scan (18–20 weeks) – A detailed scan to assess fetal development, check for congenital conditions, and (if desired) reveal the baby’s sex.

If no concerns arise, these may be the only ultrasounds you need. However, if necessary, your provider may recommend additional scans, such as a Biophysical Profile (BPP), to monitor your health and your baby’s well-being.

What Is a Biophysical Profile (BPP)?

If your pregnancy is considered high risk due to health conditions or irregular test results, your obstetrician may order a biophysical profile (BPP). This safe, non-invasive test is typically performed between 32 to 37 weeks depending on the clinical situation.

The biophysical profile (BPP) assesses your baby’s well-being, including fetal heart rate, breathing movements, body movements, muscle tone, and amniotic fluid levels.

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How to Prepare for Your OB Ultrasound & What to Expect

Ultrasounds are very simple and safe procedures. Although, knowing how to prepare and what to expect is a great way to calm any nerves. The following are some tips:

  • Drink water – A full bladder may be needed to improve image clarity (your provider will advise if needed).

  • Wear comfortable clothing – You may be asked to adjust or remove clothing for easy access to your abdomen.

  • Eat normally – Unless instructed otherwise, you don’t need to fast before your appointment.

A sonographer will perform the scan during the ultrasound, typically lasting 20-60 minutes. Your provider will review the results with you, either immediately or at your next appointment. You’ll also receive digital images of your baby through our secure imaging service, Tricefy.

Is an Ultrasound Safe for My Baby?

Yes! Extensive research shows that ultrasounds are safe for both mother and baby, with no harmful side effects. However, they should only be performed when medically necessary to ensure the safest pregnancy experience.

At Moreland OB-GYN, our expert healthcare providers and AIUM-accredited sonographers will ensure a safe, comfortable, and easy ultrasound experience for you and your baby.

Can I Bring a Loved One to My Ultrasound?

We encourage you to bring a partner or loved one to share in this special experience. However, we ask that children not attend, as the ultrasound requires complete focus.

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Schedule Your OB Ultrasound Today

At Moreland OB-GYN, we provide expert, compassionate care throughout your pregnancy. From routine ultrasounds to specialized testing, our team ensures you feel informed, comfortable, and supported every step of the way. With our compassionate providers and our pregnancy nurse navigators, we guide expecting mothers through their entire pregnancy journey.

Schedule your OB ultrasound appointment today.

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