An obstetric ultrasound is a very safe and accurate investigation of your unborn baby. Ultrasound uses harmless high frequency inaudible sound waves to obtain images. Ultrasound waves are not dangerous or irritating for you or your baby.
Overview
Using advanced imaging ultrasound systems, Synergy Radiology provides high image quality for medical diagnosis in obstetrics. Our sonographers and specialist radiologists highly trained and experienced in all facets of obstetric imaging.
Preparing for an Obstetric Ultrasound
Please bring your referral (letter from your doctor) and your Medicare and/or Pension Health care card with you to your appointment. It is important to bring all previous results relating to the region being imaged.
Please be on time for your appointment to ensure there is sufficient time available to perform the procedure.
Scanning
You will not feel any pain or discomfort.
Your procedure will take up to approximately 15–60 minutes.
Results
An ultrasound is an extremely accurate diagnostic tool.
We understand that some patients are anxious about having tests performed. If you do have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask our staff. Synergy Radiology strongly advises that you return to your referring doctor, in order for your doctor to discuss your radiology report with you.
Please bring your referral (letter from your practitioner) and your Medicare and/or Pension Healthcare card with you to your appointment.
FAQs
Why has my doctor requested an ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a non-invasive investigation to assist in monitoring your pregnancy. This examination may provide valuable information about your pregnancy that will assist the doctor in ensuring a successful outcome for you and your baby.
There are many reasons a doctor may request an ultrasound. Some of these are:
- To assess the growth of a baby.
- To assess the number of babies.
- To check for possible abnormalities.
What is the difference between a Nuchal Translucency scan and an Obstetric Ultrasound?
A Nuchal Translucency scan is an ultrasound usually performed between 11th to 13th week of pregnancy. It is a screening process (ultrasound and blood test) to assess the risk for your baby of certain chromosomal abnormalities, including Down Syndrome. For more detailed information please see our Nuchal Translucency section.
Can I eat before having an obstetric ultrasound?
You are required to have a full bladder.
Can I have a female sonographer/technician to perform the scan?
We have female radiographers and sonographers sensitive to the needs of female patients.
Is this test safe for my baby?
There is NO radiation with an ultrasound examination.
You will be provided with earplugs or headphones with music to help block out the MRI noise.
To allow the radiologist to see the anatomy/pathology more clearly, you may require an injection of an MRI specific contrast agent. If so, you will be asked to give your consent to the injection. MRI contrast agents typically have few or no side effect
Will the sonographer performing my scan tell me what’s wrong?
It is the sonographer’s duty to perform the test and ensure the images are of high quality for the radiologist (specialist) to interpret them.