Ultrasound
Ultrasound technology has numerous applications during pregnancy and as a diagnostic tool, and is one of many services available from the team at West Kendall OBGYN. If you live in or near the areas of Doral, Kendall or West Kendall in Miami, schedule an appointment to learn more about the role that ultrasound may play in your pregnancy and to discuss the latest in prenatal care. Booking a visit is as simple as a phone call or a few moments on the online booking page, so don’t delay.
Ultrasound Q&A
How Does Ultrasound Technology Work?
An ultrasound is an imaging technique that uses sound waves to create pictures of your soft tissues. When used in obstetrics, ultrasound technology can help your doctor evaluate your baby’s development and estimate your due date.
The process works by using a special handheld device called a transducer to emit and collect sound waves undetectable to the human ear. As the sound waves encounter tissues of varying density, it alters the returned sounds. Those waves convert into a real-time image of your baby, which you and your doctor can view on an external monitor.
Many women look forward to their first ultrasound appointment because it is their first time to “see” their baby, and 3D fetal imaging ultrasound creates astounding images. Those moments are awesome for everyone involved, but ultrasound provides even greater value by enabling your doctor to monitor the progression of your pregnancy.
What is a Pelvic Ultrasound?
A pelvic ultrasound, also called a transvaginal ultrasound, is a tool used to diagnose a wide range of gynecologic conditions. This type of ultrasound emits and gathers sound waves through a probe placed inside your vagina.
A pelvic ultrasound at West Kendall OBGYN is painless, although you may feel a bit uncomfortable during the procedure. You may be asked to drink a large volume of fluid prior to your appointment, which can make the process seem longer than it really is. Most pelvic ultrasounds take less than 15 minutes from start to finish.
A pelvic ultrasound can evaluate changes in the size, shape, or position of your uterus and ovaries. It can also check for changes in the shape of your bladder, and display the rate of blood flow through your pelvic organs. A pelvic ultrasound can also reveal the presence of tissue abnormalities like polyps or fibroids.
Why are Ultrasounds Such a Popular Tool in Obstetrics and Gynecology?
Both doctors and patients of West Kendall OBGYN choose ultrasounds based on a long and established safety record. There’s no need for anesthesia or in-depth preparation. You won’t have to worry about recovery time, and there is a very low risk of complications.
Ultrasounds are also among the least expensive diagnostic options. They are widely available, and the results are easy to read. In some cases, the results of an ultrasound indicate the need for a more in-depth diagnostic tool. Very often, however, an ultrasound can help avoid a more invasive and costly procedure.
If you have questions about ultrasound technology and the role it might play in your gynecologic or obstetric care, call West Kendall OBGYN or use the online scheduling page to set up a visit today.