FAQs

Is it safe to have multiple ultrasounds?

YES! Studies have proven that ultrasounds do not pose any risk to moms or their fetuses. There is something in ultrasound called ALARA (As Low as Reasonably Achievable). This principle should always be used when it comes to safely performing OB ultrasounds. Ultrasound is a form of energy. This does and can have an effect on tissue. We use a very low output of thermal energy while using our machine. Also, note, The thermal energy is not always on while we are scanning you. We frequently freeze the image during scanning to either measure a particular image or to show you a particular picture.

For more info, you can go to www.ccrmivf.com or www.umbjournal.org

Will you be doing a transvaginal ultrasound on me?

No! I have decided to not invest in a transvaginal ultrasound probe at this time. There is a lot that goes into cleaning those probes with professional high-grade disinfectants and also the liability is higher when doing this. By 8 weeks GA, I am usually able to see the baby transabdominally. If in fact, your dates are off and you are earlier than you expect when you come in, we can do our best to take a look and/or we can reschedule you for a later time.

Why are my ultrasound pictures and 3D images not as clear as my friend’s or the ones I see online?

There is a misconception when it comes to the perfect profile picture or the perfect 3D picture. The patient’s body habitus can play a big part. If you are overweight it can affect how clear the image is. This goes for 2D and 3D imaging. As far as 3D/4D images go, a lot has to line up just right. The baby needs to be in a good position, you need a good tech that has a lot of experience, there needs to be enough fluid around the face and if the placenta, the cord, or other body parts are covering the face, it can distort the image.

Why can’t I listen to my baby’s heartbeat right now? I will gladly allow you to listen and hear your baby’s heartbeat after the 1st trimester. What a lot of inexperienced techs and Doctors do not know, is that using the doppler over the baby’s heart produces heat. It is unknown if this heat is too much at such an early gestational age. In the 1st trimester, M-mode is used to detect the baby’s heart rate (no sound). This is safe at all gestations. By the 2nd trimester, it is safe to use both Doppler and M-mode.