An ultrasound is a common imaging test to assess your pregnancy and to help diagnose health conditions. The skilled team at RPW Obstetrics and Gynecology offers ultrasounds and sonohysterography in the convenience of their five office locations in Elmhurst, Addison, Westchester, Oak Park, and Hinsdale, Illinois. Call today or schedule a consultation online for expert ultrasound care at the location that’s most convenient for you.
An ultrasound is a painless, diagnostic device commonly used in women’s health. The device works by sending sound waves, which come in contact with your tissues, body fluids, and bones. The waves bounce back, creating images your provider views on a monitor.
Your practitioner at RPW Obstetrics and Gynecology uses ultrasound to confirm and monitor pregnancy, and for multiple other health-related reasons. They often recommend an ultrasound to:
An ultrasound also diagnoses possible causes of infertility.
In certain cases, when your practitioner wants a better view of your uterus, they recommend sonohysterography.
During this 30-minute procedure, they insert viewing fluid into your uterus via your cervix, then view the organ on a monitor. This type of ultrasound is typically recommended to look for abnormal growths or scar tissue in your uterus.
You’re escorted to an exam room at RPW Obstetrics and Gynecology and recline on an exam table. An ultrasound technician applies a water-based gel to your abdomen. The gel, which may feel cool or wet, prevents air pockets from interfering with sound waves.
Your technician places a handheld device called a transducer on your skin, moving it over your stomach. The transducer transmits sound waves into your body. This process creates images, which then appear on a computer. When your ultrasound is complete, you wipe off the gel.
In certain cases, you may need an ultrasound performed inside your body. This is called a transvaginal ultrasound.
The process is similar to a pelvic exam in that you lie on your back with your feet in stirrups. Then your practitioner inserts a slim transducer into your vagina. The transducer sends images to a screen for your practitioner to review.
Once complete, your practitioner reviews the ultrasound results and discusses them with you.
Your obstetrician recommends at least one ultrasound, which typically occurs at 18-22 weeks of pregnancy. They also may suggest additional ultrasounds, such as during the first trimester.
A first-trimester ultrasound exam is used to do the following:
If you need an ultrasound to diagnose a women’s health condition or because you’re pregnant, call today or book a consultation online with the team at RPW Obstetrics and Gynecology.
