ADVANCED DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND

advanced diagnostic ultrasound

As part of our mission to provide the highest level of healthcare, Women’s Health of Central Virginia is pleased to offer advanced diagnostic ultrasounds, used in obstetrics and gynecology. Ultrasound emits high frequency sound waves to produce images of pelvic organs or a baby during pregnancy. The ultrasound is a non-invasive test that is safe and painless. 

Obstetrics

The advanced diagnostic ultrasound will provide you and your doctor a view of your developing baby. We use the ultrasound to:

  • Confirm a pregnancy and its location 
  • Take measurements to determine how the baby is growing
  • Typically performed between 18 – 22 weeks gestation
  • Determine gender of developing baby
  • Determine the development and location of the placenta
  • Identify any fetal abnormalities

Advanced diagnostic ultrasounds are a great way to ensure you and your baby are healthy throughout your pregnancy. When the pregnancy is less than 12 weeks, the ultrasound is performed transvaginally, using a transducer inserted into the vagina to visualize the small developing baby. 

Gynecology

If you are having any abnormal bleeding or irregular periods, Women’s Health of Central Virginia will likely use an advanced diagnostic ultrasound to evaluate your pelvic organs. Ultrasound technology used in gynecology allows us to:

  • Take measurements and assess the size, shape and position of the uterus and ovaries
  • Evaluate the thickness of the endometrium and look for signs of uterine polyps
  • Observe the presence of fluid or masses within the uterus, fallopian tubes or near bladder
  • Look at blood flow through pelvic organs
  • Measure the length and thickness of cervix
  • Look for inflammation or infection
  • Determine a reason for postmenopausal bleeding
women's health center ultrasound imaging

An ultrasound can be performed transabdominally, on top of the abdomen, or transvaginally, using a transducer inserted into the vagina to image pelvic organs from a different angle.

There are no known side effects of ultrasound technology and there is no special type of care required after an ultrasound is performed. You can resume your normal activities immediately after unless your doctor advises you differently.