Obstetrical Ultrasound

Obstetrical Ultrasound

Obstetrical ultrasound provides pictures of an embryo or fetus within a woman's uterus.

A Doppler ultrasound study may be part of an obstetrical ultrasound examination.

Doppler ultrasound is a special ultrasound technique that evaluates blood velocity as it flows through a blood vessel, including the body's major arteries and veins in the abdomen, arms, legs and neck.

During an obstetrical ultrasound the doctor or sonographer may evaluate blood flow in the umbilical cord or may in some cases assess blood flow in the fetus or placenta.

Common Uses of the Procedure

• Establish the presence of a living embryo/fetus.
• Estimate the age of the pregnancy.
• Diagnose congenital abnormalities of the fetus.
• Evaluate the position of the fetus.
• Evaluate the position of the placenta.
• Determine if there are multiple pregnancies.
• Determine the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby.
• Check for opening or shortening of the cervix or mouth of the womb.
• Assess fetal growth.
• Assess fetal well-being.