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DESCRIPTION
Ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic technique that produces an image on a screen (sonogram) by passing high frequency sound wave into the body. The reflected echoes are detected and analyzed to establish the picture of internal organs or a fetus in the uterus. Ultrasound can be used to examine most parts of the body except those surrounded by bone (the brain) or that contain gas (lungs or intestines).
REASONS FOR PROCEDURE
In obstetric and gynecological diagnostic situations:
To detect foreign bodies and distinguish between cystic and solid masses (tumors) in the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.
To evaluate fetal viability, position, gestational age, and growth rate (often recommended between 12 and 20 weeks into pregnancy).
To determine the position of the placenta.
Suspected ectopic pregnancy.
To guide amniocentesis by determining placental location and fetal placement.
To detect multiple pregnancies.
Can be used to evaluate fetal well-being with an examination called biophysical profile (BPP). It assesses fetal breathing movement, heart rate, limb movement, trunk attitude and movement and amount of amniotic fluid.
This procedure should only be done on those pregnancies that require further diagnostic evaluation. This should not be done routinely on all pregnant women, especially low risk healthy women carrying healthy low risk babies. We do not have adequate information or research studies about long term effects that high frequency sound waves may have on a developing embryo-fetus.
ULTRASOUND PROCEDURE
The procedure is usually done in a health care provider's office or medical facility. No anesthetic is required unless it is associated with other testing, such as amniocentesis.
In early pregnancy testing, a woman is usually advised to drink several glasses of fluid and not to empty the bladder for a few hours prior to the test. A full bladder helps improve the view of the uterus when the ultrasound is done through the abdomen.
Clothing over the area to be scanned is removed and oil or jelly is smeared on the skin to achieve good contact.
A transducer (an instrument that converts an electrical current into sound waves) is passed back and forth over the skin and the images appear on a video screen.
In some cases, the transducer may be placed inside the vagina to allow certain enhanced details to be seen. The vaginal procedure allows better visualization of the pelvis. In this case, a full bladder is not necessary.
The technique produces no detectable sensation or pain.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
The ultrasound reveals no abnormalities or problems.
There are no after effects from the procedure itself.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
None expected from the procedure for a mother or child.
The ultrasound results may be considered abnormal and further testing may be recommended, when it may not be necessary and the pregnancy and fetus are fine. Results may often be false or inaccurate (e.g., estimation of fetal gestational age) resulting in unwanted procedures (e.g., cesarean or other diagnostic-surgical procedure).
There are some concerns about long-term effects of this type of testing, but no risks have, as yet, been determined.
POST-PROCEDURE CARE
GENERAL MEASURES
You may empty your bladder immediately after the test.
Results of the procedure will be explained to you by your midwife or healthcare provider. Further diagnostic testing may be indicated.
Most often, the results show a normal uterus and ovaries and no other masses are visible. If done in pregnancy, the gestational sac and fetus are normal size for date.
If testing is to determine the difference between cystic and solid masses, the solid masses will appear more dense on the sonogram.
Results may indicate inappropriate fetal size, which can indicate a miscalculation of conception or delivery date. Abnormal echo patterns may indicate foreign bodies, such as an intrauterine device (IUD); multiple pregnancy; problems with placental placement; fetal abnormalities and breech or shoulder presentation.
MEDICATION
Medication is usually not necessary.
ACTIVITY
No restrictions.
DIET
No special diet. However, you should follow a healthy, balanced nutritional program for a healthy immune system and to maintain a healthy body. If you are pregnant, follow a dietary program designed for pregnancy.
MoonDragon's Nutrition Information, Guidelines, Dietary Recommendations
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
The following occurs:
You have questions or concerns about the testing procedure.
Results are not clearly understood.
LINKS FOR PRENATAL ULTRASOUND SAFETY
Prenatal Screening for Birth Defects/Ultrasound
The Dangers of Prenatal Ultrasound
Life Before Birth: Wombsafe
Prenatal Ultrasound Scanning and Altered Handedness: What Safety Implications?
Marsden Wagner: Ultrasound
Physical Exposures Ad Hoc Working Group Report
BMUS.org: Safety of Ultrasound
HealthGate: Ob-Ultrasound Safety Studies
HealthGate: Ob-Ultrasound Safety References
Bioeffects of Ultrasound Studies 1980-1990
On The Safety of Prenatal Ultrasound
Fetuses Can Hear Ultrasound Examinations
Ultrasound Scans May Disrupt Fetal Brain Development
Prenatal Testing: Ultrasound Safety and Accuracy
Prenatal Ultrasound & Obstetrics
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