OB Ultrasound

What is OB ultrasound?

Obstetrics (OB) ultrasound is an imaging exam performed on pregnant women and their unborn babies.

What can you expect during your exam?

An OB ultrasound usually begins with you lying on your back or side on an exam table. Your lower abdomen will be coated with a clear gel that improves transmission and detection of the sound waves.

The sonographer begins the scan by gently pressing and sliding the transducer over the target area. Real-time images of the embryo or fetus, uterus and surrounding organs and tissues are immediately displayed on a video monitor screen.

Sometimes, most often in early pregnancy, the ultrasound exam is performed by inserting a special transducer slightly into the vagina. This technique often provides more detailed images of the uterus and ovaries.

An OB exam typically takes about 20 minutes.