Pelvic ultrasounds are not only a tool for determining the sex of a fetus or reviewing its growth and health. An Ultrasound in Ardmore OK is an important gynecological tool that helps physicians to diagnose conditions and examine internal organs in the lower belly in a non-invasive manner. There are a couple of methods of pelvic ultrasound testing, and both provide a wealth of information.
Method #1: Transabdominal Ultrasound
Women are usually most familiar with this method of testing because it is commonly used during prenatal care. The Transabdominal Ultrasound is used to provide obstetricians and expectant mothers with the first images of the developing fetus. It is completed by passing a hand-held transducer over the lower belly. This is also a common method used to diagnose fibroid tumors, check the ovaries and diagnose endometriosis or other problems with the fallopian tubes. Some physicians order the tests automatically for all of their pregnant patients while others only use the testing if it is believed there is more than one fetus, if the mother is unsure of the date of conception, or if the pregnancy is high risk.
Method #2: Transvaginal Ultrasound
A transducer is inserted vaginally for this method of testing. It provides a clearer picture of the developing fetus and internal organs than an external transducer. This method is used frequently when there are complications with a pregnancy, fertility problems, or other suspected gynecological issues. It detects ectopic pregnancies and may be used when a miscarriage is suspected.
There are no known health risks to the woman or the developing fetus with either ultrasound method. Both provide abundant data and help to diagnose health concerns early to allow more effective treatments. A transabdominal Ultrasound in Ardmore OK is included with most prenatal testing and care.
It is entirely painless and takes less than an hour to complete. A transvaginal ultrasound may be mildly uncomfortable for some women in the same manner as an internal gynecological exam would be slightly uncomfortable. It takes between 30 and 60 minutes.
Ultrasound testings used only low-power sound waves to provide images. It is a valuable tool that provides many women with reassurance and live-saving diagnostics. Contact us to learn more about either method and for answers to any questions about these types of testing.
