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Frequently Asked Questions about Ultrasound

Obstetrical Ultrasound

Obstetrical ultrasounds are used to evaluate pregnancies at all stages. This type of exam can be used to evaluate the fetus, placenta, uterus and ovaries. The exam is painless and is generally completed within 40 minutes. In early pregnancy, assessment with an "transvaginal" type of ultrasound is sometimes required in addition to the standard method of pelvic scanning.

Obstetrical ultrasounds provide information regarding:

• Confirmation of the position of the pregnancy in the uterus.

• Number of fetuses and age of the pregnancy.

• Fetal abnormalities. Some abnormalities can be detected prenatally.

• Fetal growth and well being.

• Complications of the pregnancy related to fetal, placental and uterine abnormalites. Abnormalities in the amount of amniotic fluid that is present can be detected.

Sample Images:

Early pregnancy (6 - 8 weeks)	Fetal spine images

Fetal face	Profile of fetal head