What is an OB/GYN Ultrasound?
An OB/GYN ultrasound—also known as a sonogram—is a safe, non-invasive imaging diagnostic test that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to capture real-time, detailed depictions of your internal pelvic structures or a developing fetus. Because ultrasound technology relies entirely on sound waves rather than radiation, it carries no risk for mothers or babies, making it the gold standard for clinical monitoring in women’s health.
At Miami Women’s Center, we provide state-of-the-art ultrasound imaging for both gynecological diagnostics (evaluating pelvic conditions) and obstetrical monitoring (tracking pregnancy) to give you and your doctor a clear, accurate look at your health.
Request an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions About Ultrasounds
What is the difference between a transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound?
The method used depends on what your doctor needs to visualize:
- Transabdominal Ultrasound: The sonographer applies a clear gel to your lower stomach and gently glides a device called a transducer across the area. It is completely painless and is used for mid-to-late pregnancy tracking and general pelvic scans.
- Transvaginal Ultrasound: A slender, specialized ultrasound probe is gently inserted into the vagina. This provides a highly detailed, up-close view of your cervix, uterus, and ovaries. It is commonly used in early pregnancy (first trimester) or to investigate specific gynecological symptoms like pelvic pain.
How many routine ultrasounds are performed during a standard pregnancy?
For a standard, low-risk pregnancy, Miami Women’s Center typically performs two primary diagnostic scans:
- Dating/Dating Ultrasound (First Trimester): Completed around weeks 8 to 12 to confirm a viable intrauterine pregnancy, document fetal cardiac activity, and establish an accurate estimated due date.
- Anatomy Survey Scan (Second Trimester): Conducted between weeks 18 and 22. This is a thorough, comprehensive evaluation of the baby’s entire anatomy, organ development, growth rate, amniotic fluid volume, and placental placement.
Do I need a full bladder for an ultrasound?
It depends on the type of scan. For a transabdominal ultrasound in early pregnancy or a general pelvic scan, a full bladder pushes your intestines out of the way, creating an optimal “acoustic window” to see your uterus and ovaries clearly. Your care team at Miami Women’s Center will provide simple instructions on whether to drink water before your specific appointment.
Conditions Diagnosed with Gynecological Ultrasounds
Ultrasounds are not just for pregnancy. At Miami Women’s Center, our advanced imaging is a frontline diagnostic tool used to investigate unexplained pelvic pain, irregular cycles, and structural changes. Gynecological scans help identify:
- Uterine Fibroids & Polyps: Detecting benign masses or tissue overgrowths growing within the uterine walls or cavity.
- Ovarian Cysts & Pelvic Masses: Locating and measuring fluid-filled sacs or solid masses on the ovaries.
- Endometriosis: Mapping internal signs of tissue growth outside the uterine cavity.
- Abnormal Bleeding: Pinpointing the physical causes behind heavily irregular or postmenopausal bleeding.
- IUD Placement Verification: Checking that an intrauterine device is perfectly positioned inside the uterus.