Obstetric ultrasound
Obstetric ultrasound (pronounced: ob-ste-trik ul-truh-sound) is a diagnostic imaging technique used in pregnancy to provide images of the fetus, placenta, and female pelvic organs. This technique is a key component of prenatal care, allowing for the detection of potential health issues and monitoring the development of the fetus.
Etymology
The term "obstetric" is derived from the Latin word "obstetrix", which means "midwife". The word "ultrasound" comes from the Latin "ultra" meaning "beyond", and the Greek "sound", referring to sound waves beyond the range of human hearing.
Procedure
During an obstetric ultrasound, a device called a transducer is used to send high-frequency sound waves into the body. These waves bounce off internal structures, creating echoes that are processed by a computer to form an image. The procedure is non-invasive and generally painless.
Types of Obstetric Ultrasound
There are several types of obstetric ultrasound, including:
- Transvaginal ultrasound: This is often used early in pregnancy to get a clear image of the fetus and placenta.
- Standard ultrasound: This provides a 2D image of the fetus and is typically used to check the baby's anatomy and confirm the due date.
- Advanced ultrasound: This is similar to the standard ultrasound but is used when a more detailed examination is needed, often in high-risk pregnancies.
- Doppler ultrasound: This measures slight changes in the ultrasound waves as they bounce off moving objects, such as blood cells, to assess blood flow.
- 3D ultrasound: This provides a three-dimensional image of the fetus.
- 4D or Dynamic 3D ultrasound: This creates a 3D image in motion, like a video.
Uses
Obstetric ultrasound is used for various purposes, including:
- Confirming the presence of a pregnancy
- Determining the age of the pregnancy
- Diagnosing fetal malformations
- Evaluating the position of the fetus and placenta
- Assessing fetal growth and well-being
- Guiding procedures such as amniocentesis
Risks
While ultrasound is generally considered safe for both mother and fetus, it should be used judiciously and only when medically necessary. Potential risks include false-positive and false-negative results, which can lead to unnecessary interventions or missed diagnoses.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Obstetric ultrasound
- Wikipedia's article - Obstetric ultrasound
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