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A pelvic ultrasound uses sound waves to make a picture of
the organs and structures in the lower abdomen. A pelvic ultrasound
looks at the bladder, ovaries, uterus, cervix and fallopian
tubes. This can be used to identify cysts, fibroids and other
gynecological conditions, organs and structures that are solid
and uniform, like the uterus and ovaries, or are fluid filled,
like the bladder show up clearly on a pelvic ultrasound, sending
sound waves to a computer. This is done by using a small handheld
instrument called a transducer that is gently moved over your
abdomen, which converts a picture onto a video screen. In some
cases, a CT scan or an MRI may be needed to confirm findings.
Sometimes a follow-up ultrasound may be ordered to determine
if abnormal findings are persisting, worsening or resolving
on their own.
Obstetrical and gynecological ultrasounds can be done transabdominally
and/or transvaginally. You should wear loose fitting clothing
for a pelvic ultrasound. You may need to remove your clothes
below the waist and out on a drape before the test.
Transabdominal Ultrasound
If a transabdominal ultrasound is done, you will be asked
to drink 32 ounces of water about an hour before the test to
fill your bladder. A full bladder pushes the intestines (which
contain air) out of the way of pelvic organs. This makes the
ultrasound picture clearer. Do not empty your bladder until
instructed. You will likely feel slight pressure as the transducer
passes over your abdomen and a strong urge to urinate because
your bladder is full.
Transvaginal Ultrasound
If you are having a transvaginal ultrasound, tell your healthcare
professional if you are allergic to latex so a latex-free cover
can be put over the transducer before it is used. Transvaginal
ultrasounds often make a clearer picture than the transabdominal
ultrasounds because the transducer probe gets closer to the
organs to be viewed. You may feel pressure from the transducer
as it is passed into your vagina.
Obstetrical Ultrasound
A Level I ultrasound is usually done at 19-21 weeks gestation.
This is usually done transabdominally. During this exam, the
gestational age, location of the placenta, amniotic fluid volume
and entire anatomical survey is done. Please inform us if you
do not want to know the sex of the baby revealed to you.
3-D Obstetrical Ultrasound
This test is usually done between 28-32 weeks gestation, and
allow parents to see a 3 dimensional view of their baby. Although
optimal views are our goal, many times the babys position precludes
a good view. Therefore, we cannot guarantee clear pictures.
This is not a diagnostic ultrasound and no anatomical survey
or fetal measurements will be taken. A prerequisite is that
a Level I ultrasound on the fetus has already been done and
reviewed by your physician.
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