How Does an Ultrasound Produce an Image of a Fetus in the Mother’s Uterus?

Think of ultrasound imaging like the sonars you would find in submarines and boats.

Using a device called a transducer, a sonographer can send high-frequency sound waves into the body, and then receive the sound waves back. Ultrasound gel is applied to the patient’s skin, so the sound is able to travel through the body and return to the transducer.

The transducer’s receiver detects any deviations in the sound as it bounces off different parts of the body’s internal workings, from tissues to organs.

These sound waves are measured, and create an image on a computer screen. Some computers are even capable of taking these sound waves and creating moving images from them.

Ultrasound Science: From Sound to Ultrasound Imagery

This question can prove troubling to expecting parents.

Do ultrasounds use x-rays?
Do they use a procedure which could be harmful to the unborn baby?

Fortunately, ultrasounds are completely safe, and once you understand how they produce the image, you will see there is nothing to worry about.

Ultrasound services set up a monitor so the patient can see the child while it is in the womb. Note that there are several factors which determine how quickly the image is created, including the body type and structure of the patient.

As a consequence, the image is affected by, not only the pitch of the ultrasound, but by how long it takes for it to return to the transducer from the patient’s body.

A device known as Doppler, used with some ultrasound devices, monitor’s the child’s heartbeat, creating a live look at the fetus and its movements.

The Ultrasound: How is the Procedure Performed?

Generally, ultrasounds are performed with the patient lying down on an adjustable examination table.

Once the patient is in the correct position for the procedure, the sonographer applies the special water-based ultrasound gel to wherever they are examining. In addition to aiding the sound traveling through the body and back to the receiver, the gel will keep air pockets from forming between the patient and the transducer.

Air pockets can keep the sound from passing into the patient’s body. Once this is complete, the sonographer will place the transducer on the desired area, and begin moving it over the area in question.

They will repeat this process, back and forth, until they have captured the images they need.

After the images form on the monitor, the ultrasound gel is removed from the patient. Any gel remaining on the body dries quickly. The gel used for this procedure will not stain, damage, or discolor the patient’s clothing.

In some instances, the sonographer might recommend a transvaginal scan, in order to capture a more detailed image of the female reproductive system. With this, they can determine if there are any notable issues with the ovaries and uterus.

I Need a Free Ultrasound Service in Tulsa

If you need an ultrasound performed by a trustworthy group, feel free to contact us . We are dedicated to providing a free, helpful service to the women of Tulsa.

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