An ultrasound is an imaging exam in which sound waves bounce off internal structures to create an accurate image of what's inside your body. Doctors use ultrasounds for many purposes, including the imaging of most organs.
In the OB/GYN field, ultrasounds have two main purposes: gynecological and obstetrical. You may need a gynecological ultrasound if you have a possible issue within your female reproductive system.
For example, many women have a transvaginal ultrasound exam with a transducer wand to diagnose the cause of abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, or infertility.
During pregnancy, ultrasound is incredibly important to monitor your baby’s health. A transabdominal ultrasound, which uses a transducer that your provider glides over your belly, shows your baby and everything around them.
A pregnancy ultrasound has many purposes, including:
Many expectant parents also look forward to ultrasounds because they can identify the sex of the baby in the second trimester. And, with the 3D ultrasound at Innovative Women's Care, you can see your baby in great detail, with a photo you can keep.
Traditional two-dimensional ultrasounds produce flat images, while 3D ultrasounds create highly realistic three-dimensional images of your baby. Because a 3D ultrasound produces more detailed images, it can be a valuable diagnostic tool.
Your 3D ultrasound is also the first photo you ever have of your baby, so it’s very popular during later pregnancy.
You may have your first ultrasound (usually a 2D ultrasound) early in your pregnancy, which confirms pregnancy. Most women have another ultrasound at around 18-22 weeks, at which time Dr. Brathwaite checks for developmental abnormalities and other issues.
If you'd like a detailed image of your baby's face, you usually have another ultrasound sometime after the 25-week mark. It's best to do this ultrasound before 33 weeks or so. Usually, the baby moves down after that time as they prepare for delivery, which can make it difficult to get clear images.
To learn more about ultrasounds at Innovative Women’s Care, call the office or click the online appointment maker.