What Should I Expect at My OB-GYN Ultrasound?

During an OB/GYN ultrasound appointment, typically two examinations are performed. A transabdominal ultrasound is performed over the skin of the abdomen, while a probe is placed in the vagina for a transvaginal ultrasound. In some cases, the transabdominal ultrasound is performed on its own.

In a transabdominal ultrasound, you will be asked to lie on your back and expose the skin between your hips and your belly button. The sonographer will gently move the probe around your lower abdomen to capture images.

If your doctor has also ordered a transvaginal ultrasound, you will be asked to empty your bladder and remove the clothing below your waist. The sonographer will provide you with a sheet to cover your lower body and step out of the room so you have privacy to prepare.

For the transvaginal ultrasound, you will lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet in stirrups. A sonographer will gently insert a small, lubricated probe into the vagina, which may cause some discomfort but should not be painful. The probe will be gently moved to capture detailed images of the reproductive organs, including the uterus and ovaries.

After the scan, the sonographer will exit the room so you can get dressed. The sonographer will send the images to your physician for review. As soon as the results are available, your doctor will be in touch with you.

After your ultrasound, you’ll typically have a follow-up appointment with your doctor to go over the results. This allows your doctor to explain what was observed during the ultrasound and answer any questions you may have.

If the ultrasound is routine, such as during pregnancy, to check on the baby’s development, your doctor will discuss the results at your next scheduled visit. For ultrasounds ordered to investigate specific symptoms, your doctor will usually schedule another appointment to discuss the findings and next steps.

To know what to expect, you can ask your healthcare provider when and how you will receive your results. If any urgent issues are detected, your healthcare team will contact you promptly.

Ultrasounds are non-invasive tools that provide critical information, allowing physicians to diagnose and treat various conditions with ease. At an OB/GYN office, ultrasounds are used to assess reproductive organs, diagnose conditions, and monitor fetal development.

For example, this tool is used to assess conditions such as fibroids, polyps, cysts, tumors, and other abnormalities in the reproductive organs, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. Furthermore, ultrasounds can be instrumental in guiding certain medical procedures, such as the retrieval of eggs during IVF treatments or the placement of IUDs. They also play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing conditions like endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

During pregnancy, ultrasounds are used to monitor the development of the fetus, check for multiple pregnancies, predict the due date and gender, and assess the placenta and amniotic fluid levels. This tool is also used to detect potential complications, such as ectopic pregnancies, where the embryo implants outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. Additionally, ultrasounds help in evaluating the baby’s position before delivery.

No, the sonographer cannot discuss the results with you right after the ultrasound. The images need to be reviewed and interpreted by your OB/GYN. This process can take anywhere from a day to a week, depending on the urgency of your situation. Once the results are ready, your doctor will contact you to discuss the findings and any necessary next steps.

If you have any questions about when you will receive the results of your recent ultrasound, our team is here to provide support. To schedule an ultrasound or follow-up appointment at Abundant Life Healthcare in Lawrenceville, GA, book online or get in touch with us.

Our skilled team is committed to providing a comfortable and informative ultrasound experience, ensuring you receive the comprehensive care you deserve. Reach out to schedule your ultrasound appointment today and take an important step towards safeguarding your health and that of your baby. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 601A Professional Drive, Suite 370, Lawrenceville, GA 30046. We serve patients from Lawrenceville GA, Suwanee GA, Snellville GA, Duluth GA, Loganville GA, Auburn GA, and surrounding areas.