If you’re a mom or about to become one, you are likely familiar with the term “ultrasound.” This imaging technique creates pictures of the inside of the body using sound waves. Obstetric ultrasound takes pictures of an embryo or fetus in a woman’s uterus to captures images of the mother’s uterus and ovaries.
Ultrasound is the preferred method for monitoring pregnant women and their unborn babies. This technology does not use ionizing radiation and has no known harmful effects on mom or baby.
During an obstetric ultrasound exam, a highly trained sonographer applies ultrasound gel on your skin, then places a small transducer over the gelled area. High-frequency sound waves are transmitted from the transducer through the gel into the body. The transducer collects the sounds, which “bounce back” to a computer that uses the sound waves to create an image.
What obstetric ultrasound shows
Obstetrical ultrasound serves many valuable purposes during pregnancy. It is used to:
- Confirm the presence of a living embryo/fetus
- Estimate the age of the pregnancy
- Diagnose congenital abnormalities of the fetus
- Assess the position of the fetus
- Evaluate fetal movements and breathing
- Evaluate the position of the placenta
- Determine if there are multiple pregnancies
- Determine the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby
- Check for opening or shortening of the cervix
- Assess fetal growth
- Assess fetal well-being
The leader in accurate, timely obstetric ultrasound, and much more
Whether you’re expecting your first child or your fourth, Alaska Family Sonograms is with you every step of the way. We provide obstetric ultrasound in Anchorage and we practice to the highest standard of care. You can count on comprehensive, advanced care, precise radiologist interpretations and accurate, timely reports, all with a dedication to your unique needs and sensibilities. From obstetric ultrasound to a full range of advanced medical diagnostics, come and experience how “human” healthcare can be.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, give us a call at 907-561-3601 or click here to use our online form.