Obstetrical_Fetal Ultrasound Preparation
Overview
An obstetrical ultrasound exam looks at the uterus and ovaries, and at the fetus. The fetus is checked to be sure that its size is appropriate for its "age." The fetus is also checked to be sure the fetal anatomy is structurally normal.
Exam Preparation
- You may eat regular meals prior to an obstetrical ultrasound exam.
- If you are more than fourteen weeks pregnant there is no preparation needed.
- If you are scheduled for a Biophysical Profile, please eat a meal or snack one hour before the exam.
What will happen during my exam?
During the exam, the patient lies on a table with the abdominal area exposed. The sonographer (technologist who performs the exam) will put a warm water-based gel on the skin surface. The gel helps to transmit sound waves by excluding air. An instrument called a transducer, which is about the size of a microphone, will be moved over the skin surface by the sonographer.
Exam Results:
Upon completion of the exam, a radiologist from BIDMC will interpret your exam. Your doctor will be contacted with the results.