Ultrasounds Made Simple: Key Facts and Practical Tips

March 11, 2024

An ultrasound may sound scary and invasive if you are unfamiliar with this process. But it provides critical information and doesn’t cause side effects.

A trained technician (called a sonographer) operates a machine that creates a digital scan of a targeted area of your body. Sound waves are used to produce this image.

If you’re pregnant, an ultrasound is crucial because it can show a picture of your pregnancy, which could alert you to potential complications.

Keep reading to learn more about how ultrasounds work and what to expect.

Are you looking for a free, limited ultrasound for your pregnancy? Contact Crystal Women’s Clinic today to schedule this procedure so you can get essential details about your pregnancy.

How Does an Ultrasound Work?

High-frequency sound waves, emitted by a tool called a transducer, bounce off internal structures (bone and tissue) and back to the transducer.

The sound waves are converted into electrical signals that are visually represented by the ultrasound image on a computer.

How Should I Prepare for an Ultrasound?

Ultrasounds use safe, low-power sound waves.

Here are some practical steps you can take to prepare for an ultrasound:

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing: You may need to change into a hospital gown or reposition (or remove) some of your clothing, so you want to keep it as simple as possible.
• Leave jewelry at home: You may have to reposition or remove jewelry from the examined area, so it’s best to be safe and leave it at home.
• Call ahead: They may have specific instructions, such as to come with a full bladder, so make sure you have all the instructions you need to come fully prepared.

What Should I Expect During a Prenatal Ultrasound?

Depending on the estimated gestational age of your pregnancy, you can expect either an abdominal or transvaginal ultrasound.

If it’s early in the pregnancy, the sonographer may need to conduct a transvaginal ultrasound for the most accurate imaging.

Similar to a pap smear, you will sit with your feet in stirrups and remove all clothing from the waist down. This way, the sonographer can gently insert the lubricated transducer into the vagina and guide the transducer until the ultrasound is complete.

The sonographer will perform an abdominal ultrasound if you are further along. The sonographer will rub gel along your stomach and gently move the transducer across the applied area. As the transducer emits sound waves, it will generate the ultrasound image.

Next Steps

Crystal Women’s Clinic offers confidential and free ultrasounds in a compassionate environment.

From an ultrasound, we can help you learn your pregnancy’s gestational age, location, and whether it is progressing, which may affect your options moving forward.

You are not alone! We are here to listen, empathize, and provide practical resources to help you on your journey. Contact us today to schedule an ultrasound!