Ultrasound technology utilizes high-frequency sound waves to produce
images of organs in a woman and her baby (if pregnant). It is generally
regarded to be a safe procedure and is the current standard in prenatal
care. Under the supervision of Dr. McBride our certified ultrasonographer,
Lori Williams, performs all ultrasounds in the comfort of our office.
Currently, we offer abdominal and vaginal ultrasounds. Both scans
utilize the same technology but the sound waves are delivered by differently
shaped transducers.
~ Where is the procedure performed?
You will be scheduled to have your ultrasound in our office. You
can wear your regular clothes and return to your normal activities
following the scan. Most insurance companies cover ultrasound scans
and our office staff will assist in obtaining any pre-authorization
if needed. Providing this service in our office is comparatively
less expensive then directing you to another facility.
~ What preparation is needed prior
to an ultrasound?
No alteration in diet or meal is required.
~ I am pregnant. Why and when do I
have an ultrasound?
Dr. McBride generally recommends an ultrasound at 8 weeks and again
in the 20th week. Information about your babies’ health includes
the age of your baby, confirmation of due date and determination
of multiple births. Ultrasonic scanning assesses the baby’s
size and location, fetal movement, amount of fluid surrounding the
baby and heartbeat as well as the baby’s sex (although this
is not the main purpose of an ultrasound). Some types of birth defects
may be detected by ultrasound. Additional scans are indicated with
other complications of pregnancy including, diabetes and hypertension.
~ 3D/4D ultrasound Information
This scan is best performed between the 26th and 32nd week of pregnancy.
It is an elective scan that provides incredible views of your babies’
movements in the womb.
~ Besides pregnancy, when are ultrasound
examinations performed?
Some GYN symptoms require ultrasound evaluation. Abnormal bleeding,
pelvic pain, and ovarian cysts are just some of the problems that
can be further diagnosed by an ultrasound.
~ Are there any risks in having an
ultrasound?
Ultrasonic fetal scanning is considered safe if properly used during
pre-natal care. As a form of energy, ultrasound technology uses
sound waves to visualize tissue. According to the US Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) there is no evidence that ultrasound scans
can harm a fetus. Dr. McBride believes that any potential risks
to an expectant mother and a fetus for an ultrasound are far outweighed
by the valuable information obtained.
~ When will I get the results of my
scan?
Generally, you will meet with Dr. McBride following the scan to
review the results.
