Ultrasound Imaging

Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, to create live images of the uterus, the ovaries and a developing baby. It is painless, safe in pregnancy and one of the most useful tools in obstetrics and gynecology.

Ultrasound in pregnancy

Most women have several ultrasounds during a pregnancy. They are used to:

• Confirm the pregnancy and its location, and establish the due date
• Identify twins or other multiples
• Examine the baby's anatomy in detail, usually around 18 to 22 weeks
• Follow the baby's growth and the amount of amniotic fluid
• Check the position of the placenta and, later, of the baby

Ultrasound in gynecology

Outside of pregnancy, ultrasound helps your physician find the cause of symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy or irregular bleeding, or bleeding after menopause. It is commonly used to evaluate:

• Uterine fibroids and polyps
• Ovarian cysts and other pelvic masses
• The lining of the uterus
• The position of an intrauterine device (IUD)
• Ovulation and the ovaries during a fertility evaluation

What to expect

For an abdominal ultrasound, gel is placed on your lower abdomen and a handheld probe is moved across the skin. A transvaginal ultrasound uses a slim probe placed in the vagina, which gives a closer and clearer view of the uterus and ovaries. It may feel like mild pressure and is not usually painful. Most examinations take 15 to 30 minutes.

Your physician will tell you which type of scan you need, whether it will be done in our office or arranged at an imaging center, and whether you should arrive with a full bladder. We review the results with you and explain what they mean for your care.

Visiting Lenox OBGYN

Our office is at 203 East 62nd Street, New York, NY 10065, on Manhattan's Upper East Side. Most of our patients come to us from across the tri-state area, and many travel from other states and from abroad for their care. To make an appointment, use the booking button on this page or call 917-688-2624.

This page offers general information and is not medical advice. Your physician will advise you about your own situation.