Obstetrical Ultrasounds

An obstetrical ultrasound is more than just a glimpse of your baby—it’s a vital tool that helps ensure your pregnancy is progressing healthily and your baby is developing as expected. In this article, we’ll cover what an obstetrical ultrasound is, when it should be done, and what to expect during the procedure.

At Maiden Lane Medical in New York City, we aim to make sure you’re well-informed about this important aspect of your prenatal care. Contact us today to learn more!

What is an Obstetrical Ultrasound?

An obstetrical ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to monitor the health and development of a baby during pregnancy. This exam uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the uterus, placenta, and developing fetus.

These images help healthcare providers evaluate a variety of factors, including the baby’s gestational age, fetal growth, and the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby.

What is Obstetrical Ultrasound Imaging?

Obstetrical ultrasound imaging is a safe, non-invasive technique that allows doctors to see inside the body without surgery. The procedure relies on high-frequency sound waves that bounce off the tissues inside your body, creating real-time images of your baby. These images are essential for diagnosing various conditions and tracking your baby’s development throughout your pregnancy.

There are two main types of ultrasound imaging used in obstetrics:

Transabdominal ultrasound: This is the most common form of ultrasound, where a small handheld device called a transducer is placed on the abdomen after applying ultrasound gel to improve contact.
Transvaginal ultrasound: Used primarily in early pregnancy or when a clearer image is needed, this method involves inserting a thin probe into the vagina to get a closer view of the uterus and fetus.

When Should I Have an Obstetrical Ultrasound?

Obstetricians recommend ultrasounds at various stages of pregnancy, depending on the needs of the mother and baby. Key times include:

First trimester (up to 12 weeks): A transvaginal ultrasound is often used to confirm pregnancy, estimate the gestational age, and detect any potential abnormalities early on.
Second trimester (around 18-20 weeks): A mid-pregnancy ultrasound assesses the baby’s fetal growth, checks for structural abnormalities, and evaluates the placenta and amniotic fluid levels.
Third trimester: Ultrasounds at this stage can monitor the baby’s position, growth, and overall health as the due date approaches.

Some women may need more frequent ultrasounds if there are concerns about the baby’s development, the placenta, or other medical conditions.

How to Prepare for an Obstetric Ultrasound

Preparing for an obstetric ultrasound is straightforward, but it may vary slightly depending on the stage of pregnancy and the type of ultrasound. For a transabdominal ultrasound, you may be asked to drink water beforehand to fill your bladder, as this helps improve the clarity of the ultrasound image. For a transvaginal ultrasound, no special preparation is usually necessary, although your doctor will provide specific instructions.

Wear comfortable clothing, and be prepared to expose your abdomen for the ultrasound exam. You might also want to bring your partner or a family member with you, as seeing the baby for the first time can be a special moment.

What Happens During a Pelvic Ultrasound Session?

During a pelvic ultrasound session, you will lie on an exam table while the technician or your doctor applies a layer of ultrasound gel to your abdomen. This gel helps the sound waves travel more efficiently between the transducer and your body, creating a clearer image.

For a transabdominal ultrasound, the transducer is gently moved over your abdomen to capture different views of the baby and placenta. In the case of a transvaginal ultrasound, the probe will be inserted into the vagina, providing closer images of the uterus. The procedure is generally painless and takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the exam.

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What Does My Obstetrician See on My Ultrasound Image?

Your obstetrician will review the ultrasound images to monitor the baby’s fetal growth, check for normal organ development, assess the amniotic fluid levels, and ensure that the placenta is functioning properly. In early pregnancy, ultrasounds can confirm the pregnancy, measure the baby’s gestational age, and rule out conditions such as ectopic pregnancy.

Later in the pregnancy, ultrasounds provide important information about the baby’s position, potential congenital abnormalities, and overall health. If needed, your doctor may recommend additional imaging to get a better look at any potential concerns.

Prioritizing Your Baby's Health with Obstetrical Ultrasounds

Obstetrical ultrasounds are a vital tool in ensuring a healthy pregnancy. They allow your obstetrician to monitor your baby’s development, assess the health of your pregnancy, and offer peace of mind as you progress through each trimester. If you’re a patient at Maiden Lane Medical, you can rest assured that our team is equipped with the latest technology and expertise to guide you through this important process.

For expert obstetric care, including ultrasounds, in the heart of New York City, schedule an appointment with Maiden Lane Medical today. We are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to help you and your baby thrive throughout your pregnancy. Contact us today!

Medically Reviewed By

Jill-Ann Swenson, MD, FACOG

Board Certified OB/GYN

Specialists