Ultrasound Exams During Your Pregnancy

The Gabrielson Clinic for Women offers a variety of obstetric ultrasound exams to give you an accurate picture of your health, and the health of your baby.

All ultrasound scans are noninvasive diagnostic tests performed by a registered sonographer or ultrasound technician using an ultrasound machine. Ultrasound pictures help our physicians carry out routine checks, development checks for birth defects, and screens of your baby. These screening tests can also be used for general women’s healthcare and gynecology.

Types of Pelvic Ultrasounds

Transabdominal Pelvic Ultrasound: A transabdominal ultrasound allows for visualization of the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. This exam is commonly performed at a women’s clinic for pelvic pain, abnormal uterine bleeding or other menstrual problems, palpable pelvic mass, fibroids, and ovarian cysts. Transabdominal ultrasounds are also performed for IUD placement and to check IUD placement post-procedure.

Transvaginal Pelvic Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound is performed with an endovaginal probe. This exam is commonly performed to view the lining of the uterus and the ovaries.

Pregnancy Ultrasounds

Whether you are experiencing your first pregnancy or have had multiple pregnancies, the Gabrielson Clinic for Women provides exceptional women’s health services every step of the way. Learn more about what to expect during each trimester screening.

First Trimester Ultrasound: This exam is done between 6-8 weeks. It determines how far along you are (gestational age), the due date of your unborn baby, and if the baby’s heart is beating (viability).

Nuchal Translucency Ultrasound: This exam is done between 10-13 weeks. It involves taking a measurement of the fluid in the back of the baby’s neck. It is used to screen for chromosomal abnormalities like Down Syndrome. Our medical sonographers have specialized training specifically for taking the Nuchal Translucency Measurement.

Second Trimester Ultrasound: Also called the anatomy scan, this exam is done between 18-22 weeks. It is used to examine the internal organ systems of your baby and take your baby’s growth measurements.

Third Trimester Ultrasound: Most women experiencing a routine pregnancy do not receive third trimester ultrasounds. An ultrasound may be performed during the third trimester if:

• The patient is over 35
• The patient has diabetes, high blood pressure, or other underlying health conditions
• The patient has an increased risk or high-risk pregnancy, which can be for a variety of reasons
• A fetal abnormality was noted on an earlier ultrasound

Talk with your provider about what is best for you and your baby.

Biophysical Profile: In the third trimester, your provider may request testing to ensure your baby is not under stress. The Biophysical Profile, or BPP, is an ultrasound exam that evaluates the amniotic fluid level, fetal breathing, movement, and tone.

For more information about ultrasound images and technologies or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.