Obstetrics
Obstetric ultrasound is probably the most familiar type of ultrasound. Most people get very excited to get a peek at their child before birth!
In early pregnancy, generally up to 14 weeks along, the ultrasound is often done using a small instrument that is placed inside the vagina. This allows for the clearest pictures of a tiny baby. The positioning for this type of ultrasound is awkward, as the patient needs to have her feet up in stirrups, as for a pelvic exam. The ultrasound is not painful.
As the pregnancy progresses, the baby is larger and the best images are obtained over the mother's abdomen. Ultrasound may be ordered to measure the baby's growth or check for complications. This is up to the doctor or midwife and there is no set schedule.
At approximately the half way mark, or 20 weeks of pregnancy, almost all expecting mothers will have what is called an "anatomy scan." A highlight for the parents may be learning whether they are having a boy or a girl! In addition, the technologist will image every part of the baby, including all fingers and toes, specific parts of the developing brain, the heart, kidneys, stomach, bladder, and more! This ultrasoun is very important. Problems with the baby are not very common but it can make a big difference to discover them early.