A standard component of pregnancy testing is an ultrasound. An ultrasound uses sound waves to generate images of your baby. These images are read by our trained medical staff and can confirm the viability of your pregnancy.  If you would like to schedule for an ultrasound, learn what to expect about the process below. 

What Is an Ultrasound?

A diagnostic ultrasound, or sonography, uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of your body. Because this imaging system uses no radiation, it’s the ideal method for viewing a baby during pregnancy. It allows the doctor to check on the development of the baby’s heart, lungs, brain, and organs without an invasive procedure. Additionally, the images can provide valuable information for diagnosing and treating different fetal conditions.

How Can I Prepare for an Ultrasound?

Most ultrasounds do not require preparation. However, knowing the types of ultrasounds may help you be more relax during the ultrasound procedure.  There are several types of ultrasounds that a pregnant person may receive, but at Women’s Care Medical Center, we provide a standard 2-D pelvic ultrasound and a transvaginal ultrasound. 

What Can I Expect?

For a standard 2-D ultrasound, you will be asked to move your clothes out of the way of your stomach. The sonographer will apply a lubricating jelly to your skin. This helps transmit the sound waves and prevents friction when they move the transducer across your skin. The transducer will send high-frequency sound waves through your body. The echoes of those sound waves will form a picture of your baby that will be read by our sonographer and medical physician. Once viability of your pregnancy is confirmed, the gel will be cleaned off your skin, concluding the procedure. This painless process typically takes no longer than 30 minutes. 

A transvaginal ultrasound inserts a probe into the vagina to capture images of your baby.  This is done during the early stages of pregnancy. To remain comfortable during this procedure, try to keep your body as relaxed as possible.

To schedule an ultrasound or another pregnancy-related service, contact Women’s Care Medical Center in Robertsdale, AL. Founded in 1990, the facility provides women in Baldwin County with prenatal care, STI testing, pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, medical consultation services, and reproductive options counseling. Whether you’re pregnant for the first time or a veteran parent, their compassionate team will ensure you receive expert care. Call (251) 947-2111 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to view their list of services.