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    Prenatal Ultrasound

    Ultrasound is a common prenatal procedure. It's used to confirm your due date or check your baby’s health. It's used even in low-risk pregnancies. But if there are any concerns that your baby may be at risk, ultrasound can also help. It can give your healthcare provider the information they need. This helps to make sure that you and your baby get the best possible prenatal care.

    Using sound waves to see your baby

    During ultrasound, high-frequency sound waves pass through your body and your baby. Some of those sound waves reflect off your baby. They then return to a handheld device (transducer.) This device sends the information back to the ultrasound machine. A visual image is then created on a screen.

    Healthcare provider performing ultrasound on pregnant woman.

    During ultrasound of the stomach

    While you lie down on the exam table, a layer of gel or oil is put on your stomach. This helps the sound waves more easily reach your baby. Then the transducer is slowly moved back and forth over your stomach. The procedure is painless for baby and mother. It usually takes from about 10 minutes up to about an hour.

    During vaginal ultrasound

    The transducer is covered with a condom or other sterile latex or nonlatex shield. Then it's inserted, like a tampon, into your vagina. You should have little discomfort during the test. It often takes less than 30 minutes.

    Online Medical Reviewer: Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP
    Online Medical Reviewer: Heather M Trevino BSN RNC
    Online Medical Reviewer: Irina Burd MD PhD
    Date Last Reviewed: 12/1/2022
    © 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center

    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

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