The ultrasound can assist in several important areas: * Determine if there is a uterine pregnancy or a pregnancy outside of the womb, which can be life threatening. * Determine how far along the patient is in the pregnancy. (Determine gestational age of the fetus.) * Look for signs of viability. (A viable pregnancy is one that is capable of developing under normal conditions.)
What is Obstetrical Ultrasound? In an ultrasound examination, a transducer is pressed against the skin and directs small pulses of inaudible, high-frequency sound waves into the body. As the sound waves bounce off of internal organs, fluids and tissues, the sensitive microphone in the transducer records tiny changes in the sound's pitch and direction. These signature waves are constantly measured and displayed by a computer, which in turn creates a real-time picture on the monitor.
What will I experience during and after the procedure? Most ultrasound examinations are painless, fast and easy. After you are positioned on the examination table, the sonographer will apply some warm gel on your skin and then place the transducer firmly against your body, moving it back and forth over your abdomen until the desired images are captured. After an ultrasound exam, you should be able to resume your normal activities immediately.
Is a confirmation of pregnancy available after an ultrasound? Pregnancy Care Center (PCC) will provide a confirmation of pregnancy only after the following procedures: * The patient has had an ultrasound at PCC’s medical clinic. * The ultrasound showed a viable pregnancy. * PCC's qualified medical professional has read the ultrasound and signed the ultrasound exam report.
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