Ultrasounds
An Ultrasound Exam:
What They Are and How They’re Performed
An ultrasound is a straightforward and gentle check-up, completely pain-free, performed by a trained medical professional after a positive pregnancy test. This exam confirms that the pregnancy is progressing normally and helps determine the gestational age of your fetus, essentially telling you how far along you are.
Ultrasounds use sound waves to create images of what’s happening inside. These waves bounce off your organs and tissues, sending back echoes transformed into pictures.
Why Would You Need an Ultrasound?
Ultrasounds can be used for many different things, all aimed at making sure you’re healthy and everything inside is working as it should.
Routine Check-Ups
Sometimes, doctors use ultrasounds to check out your organs. This can be your heart, liver, or even your kidneys, to ensure everything’s in its right place and functioning well.
Monitoring Conditions
If you have a specific health condition, like cysts or fibroids, ultrasounds help doctors locate and measure them.
Pregnancy Ultrasounds
Now, this is probably the most well-known use of ultrasounds. If you’re pregnant, ultrasound gives you a visual of the fetus and allows you to hear the heartbeat.
What to Expect During an Ultrasound Step-by-Step:
STEP ONE
Your medical professional will apply gel to your stomach first, then gently locate the fetus in your uterus using a small hand-held device called a transducer. You’ll be able to view this on a monitor next to you.
STEP TWO
Once the fetus is located, the medical professional can then approximate the gestational age of the fetus through measurements. (You can ask for the sonogram photo afterwards!)
Your medical professional is meant to serve you
and assist you in your health journey!
So if you have any questions, always ask!
They will be able to give you accurate information about your pregnancy or other reasons for getting an ultrasound.
Ultrasounds are a valuable tool for confirming pregnancy, estimating gestational age, and assessing overall health. While the information provided here offers general guidance on ultrasound procedures and their purpose, every pregnancy is unique. A healthcare provider can give you personalized insights based on your specific situation. If you are considering an ultrasound, consulting a qualified medical professional will ensure you receive the most accurate information and support as you navigate your pregnancy journey.
