OBSTETRICAL

Can ultrasound hurt the baby?

No. Ultrasound is a safe way to look at the baby at all stages of pregnancy.

Can the baby hear the ultrasound?

No. Ultrasound is not audible to our ears.

How accurate is ultrasound in determining gender?

Ultrasound is very accurate at determining gender. Studies have shown that the gender can be accurately determined in 90% or more of cases.

How many scans do I get during pregnancy?

The number of scans is determined by your obstetrician. Usually women will have at least one, around 18-22 weeks gestational age.

GENERAL

Why does my bladder need to be full?

A full bladder allows the uterus and ovaries to be well visualized. If the bladder is not full, the study is often not adequate, and may need to be repeated.

Why did I need to fast?

Fasting is required for abdominal ultrasounds because it allows us to better image the gallbladder. Although you cannot feel it, every time you eat your gallbladder contracts. A contracted gallbladder can hide gallstones. If the gallbladder is contracted you may be asked to return another day for further imaging.

What does the gel do?

The gel is essential for ultrasound imaging. Air blocks ultrasound beams; the gel prevents air from getting between the probe and your skin.

Why both transabdominal and transvaginal for the pelvis?

The transabdominal study gives an overview of the pelvis. The transvaginal study gives close up details about the uterus and ovaries. The two studies are complimentary and are almost always performed together.

BREAST

If the mammogram showed a mass why do I need an ultrasound?

Ultrasound is useful in characterizing abnormalities on mammograms. With ultrasound it can be determined if a mass seen on mammograms is a cyst or a solid lesion A cyst is like a tiny bag of water in the breast. It is almost always benign and can be safely ignored. If a lesion is solid it may need to be biopsied or followed. Ultrasound can also be used to guide a biopsy.

Can I just get an ultrasound instead of a mammogram?

Mammography is much more sensitive than ultrasound for the detection of early breast cancer. Ultrasound is utilized as a problem-solving tool, following an abnormal screening mammogram.