Fetal Ultrasound

Obstetric Ultrasound, Pregnancy Ultrasound, Sonogram, Fetal, Ultrasound, Fetal, Ultrasound, Obstetric, Ultrasound, Pregnancy

How To Prepare

Usually a full bladder is needed for the test. If so, you will be asked to drink water or other liquids just before the test and to avoid urinating before or during the test.

For a transvaginal fetal ultrasound, the vaginal transducer is usually covered with a latex sleeve and a vaginal lubricant, such as K-Y Jelly. If you are allergic to latex, tell the health professional before having the test.

Talk to your health professional about any concerns you have regarding the need for the fetal ultrasound, its risks, how it will be done, or what the results will indicate. To help you understand the importance of this test, fill out the medical test information formClick here to view a form.(What is a PDF document?).


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Author: Maria G. Essig, MS, ELSLast Updated: July 20, 2007
Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine
Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine

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Topic Contents
 Test Overview
 Health Tools Click here to view Health Tools.
 Why It Is Done
Arrow PointerHow To Prepare
 How It Is Done
 How It Feels
 Risks
 Results
 What Affects the Test
 What To Think About
 References
 Credits