Complete OB Ultrasound  

Ultrasound uses soundwaves to produce an image of the fetus inside the uterus. It is non-invasive and poses no risk to either mother or baby.  Often ultrasounds are requested by your primary obstetrician to check gestational dating and to examine the fetus for normal growth and development. 

Common reasons for having an ultrasound include:

·         Determining the gestational age of the fetus

·         Checking for the baby's position in the womb

·         Determining a cause for bleeding during pregnancy

·         Evaluating the anatomy and growth of the fetus

·         Diagnosing multiple gestations

·         First trimester screening for chromosome abnormalities

·         Guiding CVS or amniocentesis procedures 

High-resolution (level II) ultrasound can detect many fetal birth defects. It requires the latest equipment and technicians who understand genetics and the causes of birth defects.  We offer you state-of-the-art equipment and an experienced staff.  If you are less than 16 weeks pregnant and having a first trimester screening or CVS procedure, you will need a full bladder.   If you are greater than 16 weeks pregnant, you do not need a full bladder.  A full bladder is not needed for amniocentesis. 

A fetal echocardiogram is an ultrasound study that focuses on the fetal heart. This study is similar to a standard ultrasound and poses no risk to either the mother or baby. Fetal echocardiograms are performed by qualified sonographers and interpreted by a perinatologist.  This type of examination looks at the fetal cardiac structures, blood flow through the fetal heart, and fetal cardiac rhythm. 


Common indications for performing a fetal echocardiogram are:

·         Suspected fetal heart defect on routine obstetrical ultrasound

·         Family history of congenital heart disease

·         Suspected or known fetal chromosomal abnormality (Down syndrome, for example)

·         Other fetal malformations

·         Irregular fetal heart rhythms

·         Maternal diseases (like diabetes or lupus) or medications that may affect fetal heart structure or function    

Please call our office with further questions or to schedule your ultrasound.