Obstetrical Ultrasound

An ultrasound scan is a safe, non-invasive and accurate way to examine the health of the baby during pregnancy.

High frequency sound waves produce a continuous moving picture on a monitor screen. Movements such as fetal heart beat can be seen. Measurements can be made accurately on the images displayed on the screen. The measurements are used in the assessment of gestational age, size and growth of the baby.

The primary focus of an obstetrical ultrasound exam is the well-being of your pregnancy. During the exam, your ultrasound technologist (sonographer) will be completing a detailed anatomical assessment of your baby as well as evaluation of the amniotic fluid, placenta, cervix, and pelvic structures. It may take up to 30 minutes to record the images and measurements. During this time your sonographer needs to focus on accurately recording these images and measurements. Once your sonographer has recorded all the details you will have the option of inviting your husband, partner, or relative into the exam room to view your baby's images.

Please note that the sonographer is unable to share any of the results with you directly, other than gender if requested and seen. They are bound by the ethical practises of their professional association.

View Prep Information

Fetal Gender Assessment

With your permission, the sonographer will assess the gender of your baby during the course of the scan. Your sonographer will make every attempt to obtain the fetal gender but sometimes the position of the baby or other factors may make it difficult to determine the gender and results are not 100 percent accurate.

If the gender of the baby is determined, the sonographer may then inform you of the results at the end of your exam.

Images

Printed baby pictures may be provided on regular paper at no cost.

You have the option of purchasing a CD or USB with approx. four images of your baby. The current cost of this is $12 including tax for the CD, or $22 for the USB (prices subject to change, please check with the clinic on the day of your exam). The fee helps to cover the cost of supplies as well as the technologist's time.

Please Note: The JPEG images are created by a Windows PC and may not be compatible with all versions of Windows or Mac PCs / Operating Systems.

For more info. about Ultrasound, please refer to:

ULTRASOUND FAQ