Ultrasound Specialist

What is an ultrasound?

An ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging test that uses high-frequency soundwave technology to create images of the organs and tissues inside the body. Ultrasounds can also monitor the development of fetuses at certain points during pregnancy. Aside from monitoring pregnancy, Dr. Abdul-Mbacke may use ultrasounds to diagnose conditions affecting the reproductive organs -- including the uterus and ovaries -- along with issues in the bladder and intestine.

How often do I need to have ultrasounds while I’m pregnant?

In most cases, women have two ultrasounds during pregnancy. The first is typically performed in the first trimester to confirm a due date. The second ultrasound is completed around week 18 to confirm the sex of the baby and to check for normal anatomy in the fetus. Women may elect to have additional ultrasounds, but additional scans aren’t usually covered by insurance.

If a patient has questions about ultrasounds, they should contact Dr. Abdul-Mbacke’s practice at Piedmont Preferred Women’s Healthcare for additional information or to book an appointment.

What happens during an ultrasound?

When you have an ultrasound, you should wear loose, comfortable clothing that can be easily shifted away from the abdomen to give the technician access. You may be asked to wear a hospital gown, and will lay down or recline one a table during the procedure. A gel will be spread across your abdomen, which helps to conduct the safe and painless high-frequency soundwave through your body. The technician will gently move a handheld wand called a transducer across your abdomen. The transducer sends the soundwaves through your body, where they bounce back off the organs and developing baby, sending images to a video monitor in the treatment room. You and Dr. Abdul-Mbacke will be able to see images of your baby, and she’ll confirm it’s developing at the right pace, without any abnormalities.

Do I need to do anything to prepare for an ultrasound?

In most cases, patients don’t need to do anything special to prepare for an ultrasound. Dr. Abdul-Mbacke may ask a patient to fast for 8 hours before the ultrasound or to have a full bladder, depending on what the ultrasound is being used to examine.