What is an OB Ultrasound?
An obstetric (OB) ultrasound is a diagnostic exam performed during pregnancy by a physician or a specially trained technologist. Ultrasound, also called a sonogram, uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of your baby.

A small device called a transducer is placed on your abdomen. The sound waves travel into the body, reflect off internal structures, and are converted into images displayed on a screen.

Are Ultrasounds Safe?

At this time, there are no confirmed adverse effects in humans from diagnostic ultrasound when used appropriately. Ultrasound is recommended only when there is a medical reason and expected benefit.

Why Am I Having an Ultrasound?

Ultrasound exams are performed for several important reasons during pregnancy. Most commonly, they help your provider:

• Confirm your due date

• Monitor your baby’s growth and development

Our office typically performs two routine ultrasounds during pregnancy:

• One in the first trimester

• One in the second trimester

What is the Purpose of the 1st Trimester Ultrasound?

An early pregnancy ultrasound is used to:

• Confirm that the pregnancy is viable

• Establish an accurate gestational age

• Determine the number of fetuses

What is the Purpose of the 2nd Trimester (18-20 weeks) Ultrasound or Anatomy Scan?

The second-trimester ultrasound, often called the anatomy scan, is usually performed between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. This exam allows your provider to:

• Evaluate your baby’s growth and development

• Assess major organs and body structures

• Identify certain congenital anomalies or birth defects

• Confirm or adjust your estimated due date

Why Do We Wait until 18-20 Weeks For the Anatomy Scan?

Waiting until 18 to 20 weeks is considered the standard of care. At this stage, your baby is typically developed enough and large enough for a thorough evaluation.

During this exam, the sonographer carefully examines your baby’s:

• Heart

• Brain

• Organs

• Kidneys

• Limbs

Measurements and images are documented and reviewed by your physician.

Can I Find Out the Sex of My Baby?

In most cases, the sex of your baby can be determined during the 18 to 20 week ultrasound. We understand how exciting this moment can be for families.

While we do our best to identify your baby’s sex, it is important to remember that the sonographer’s primary focus is to ensure your baby is healthy and developing normally.

Does an Ultrasound Examination Guarantee That My Baby is Normal?

No. While ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool, it cannot detect all birth defects. Some abnormalities may be too small to see, may appear later in pregnancy, or may be difficult to evaluate due to your baby’s position or maternal body type.

Who is performing the ultrasound examination?

Ultrasounds in our office are performed by certified sonographers who are registered with the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) in the OB/GYN specialty.

Does this office perform 3D/4D ultrasound examinations?

Yes. We offer 3D and 4D ultrasound exams as keepsakes. Please note that these exams are not medically indicated and are not covered by insurance.

If you are interested in scheduling a 3D/4D ultrasound, please let our office know.

*Notice*

• Cell phones, recording, taping or photographing are strictly prohibited during your visit to our office.
• Because many ultrasounds require a high degree of accuracy, technique and observation, we ask that you limit the number of 
people that accompany you to your ultrasound visits.
• Printed pictures may be given to our patients. We do not give CD’s or DVD’s for medically indicated ultrasounds.

Patient Portal

Our Patient Portal will allow meaningful patient engagement with a variety of tools, empowering our patients to better manage their health care.

*New patients must register with our office before using the patient portal.