Sonography

Overview about IVF

Infertility ultrasound plays a large role in the assessment and management of women who are having difficulty conceiving. It is important for patients to understand ultrasound as they proceed with their care.

With ultrasound, high frequency sound waves are emitted by a “probe” (also called a transducer). The sound waves bounce off the organs and tissues in the body and the reflected sound waves are received by the probe and a computer is used to reconstruct the waves into images on the monitor.

FAQ's

Most Common Questions

How does an ultrasound differ from an x-ray? Is it harmful?

Ultrasound uses sound waves, and no ionizing radiation, and has no known significant risks.

What can you see on ultrasound?

The ultrasound gives clear pictures of the uterus; and the ovaries
It allows the doctor to look for fibroids; ovarian cysts; and ectopic pregnancies
It is also excellent for early diagnosis of pregnancies
However, the ultrasound scan is not very good for assessing whether or not the tubes are normal.

How should I prepare for an ultrasound?

Avoid using the bathroom before your scan.
Drink a specific amount of water right before your scan.
Stop eating or drinking a certain number of hours before having an ultrasound.

What are other types of ultrasound?

Abdominal ultrasound: An ultrasound probe (also called a transducer) moves across the skin of your midsection (belly) area.
Endoscopic ultrasound: A provider carefully guides a flexible tube (called an endoscope) down your throat. This tube has an ultrasound probe at the end. The probe shows the inside and outside of digestive or abdominal organs, such as the liver. During this procedure, your provider may also remove a small tissue sample for further analysis in a laboratory.
Transesophageal echocardiogram: During this specialized procedure, a provider carefully guides an endoscopic probe down your throat. The probe takes pictures of the heart and nearby blood vessels.
Transrectal ultrasound: Your provider inserts an ultrasound probe transducer into the rectum. It evaluates the rectum or other nearby tissues, such as the prostate (in men).
Transvaginal ultrasound: Your technician inserts a probe inserted into the vagina. It shows reproductive tissues such as the uterus or ovaries. A transvaginal ultrasound is sometimes called a pelvic ultrasound because it evaluates structures inside the pelvis (hip bones).
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound. In this procedure, your provider injects contrast agents through a catheter or IV during your ultrasound. These agents help give a clearer image of your organs (typically used for kidney, liver and bladder).

What is 3D vs. 4D ultrasound?

Most ultrasounds create flat (or two-dimensional) images. Some maternal and fetal medicine providers offer 3D or 4D ultrasounds. Both 3D and 4D ultrasound provide a more lifelike-appearing view of your baby inside the womb. 4D ultrasound provides live motion. It shows the real-time movement of your baby (like watching a movie).

How long does a Sonography take?

Scans typically take between 20 and 60 minutes.