Ultrasound pregnancy

To have the procedure: You will lie on your back on an exam table. The person performing the test will spread a clear, water-based gel on your belly and pelvis area. A handheld probe will then be moved over the area. The gel helps the probe transmit sound waves. These waves bounce off the body structures, including…

You will need to have a full bladder to get the best ultrasound image. You may be asked to drink 2 to 3 glasses of liquid an hour before the test. DO NOT urinate before the procedure.

There may be some discomfort from pressure on the full bladder. The conducting gel may feel slightly cold and wet. You will not feel the ultrasound waves.

An ultrasound may be done to determine if there is a problem with the pregnancy, how far along the pregnancy is, or to take measurements and screen for potential problems. Talk to your health care provider to determine the most appropriate scanning schedule for you. A pregnancy ultrasound may be done during the first…

The developing baby, placenta, amniotic fluid, and surrounding structures appear normal for the gestational age. Note: Normal results may vary slightly. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your specific test results.

Abnormal ultrasound results may be due to some of the following conditions: Birth defects Ectopic pregnancy Poor growth of a baby while in the mother's womb Multiple pregnancies Miscarriage Problems with the baby's position in the womb Problems with the placenta, including placenta previa and placental abruption Too…

Current ultrasound techniques appear to be safe. Ultrasound does not involve radiation.

Dugoff L, Wapner RJ. Prenatal diagnosis of congenital disorders. In: Lockwood CJ, Copel JA, Dugoff L, et al, eds. Creasy and Resnik's Maternal-Fetal Medicine: Principles and Practice . 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 30. Richards DS. Obstetric ultrasound: imaging, dating, growth, and anomaly. In: Landon…