Ultrasound is frequently utilized throughout pregnancy for a number of reasons including checking fetal viability, number, growth, and assessing fetal well-being. Our ultrasounds are performed by accredited sonographers and interpreted by your obstetrician.
Moreland OB-GYN offers this highly specialized first trimester screen. This unique ultrasound combined with a blood test aids in early detection of fetal abnormalities. Please feel free to discuss this screening option at your first OB appointment.
Every pregnancy will have a fetal anatomy scan performed between 18-20 weeks to screen for birth defects, assess fetal growth, and evaluate the placenta. These ultrasounds typically last between 45-60 minutes to obtain all of the images and measurements required by our physicians. We try to schedule these ultrasounds prior to your appointment with your OB physician for patient convenience and faster results.
Ultrasound testing is a way of finding out what is going on inside a body without invasive measures. It uses the reflections of high-frequency sound waves to construct images of internal organs. These reflections are then recorded, which creates a picture of what is going on inside the area of the body being studied.
Ultrasound testing in pregnancy is helpful in determining the age and position of the unborn baby, location of the placenta, the number of babies present, and to observe fetal growth and movements.
Most of our patients will have their ultrasound(s) performed in our clinic unless your physician finds it necessary to have you go to the Perinatal Assessment Center for a targeted ultrasound due to a high–risk pregnancy. If any further testing is necessary in addition to the 18-20 week scan, it will be determined on an individual basis by your physician.
There is usually no specific preparation needed for this test. There is no need to drink a certain amount of water before the test, however, it is recommended that you do not urinate immediately prior to your ultrasound.
All ultrasounds are performed by AIUM accredited sonographers.
The 18-20 week routine anatomy ultrasound commonly lasts about an hour.
There are no known side effects or risks associated with ultrasound testing.
