Dating a pregnancy
If you are pregnant, a sonogram is the only reliable way to know how many weeks along you are. Counting from your last period gives an estimate, and estimates are often wrong.
This matters more in Florida than it used to. What care is legally available to you depends on that number, so getting it right early is worth doing.
Gynecologic sonograms
Ultrasound plays a large part in diagnosing and treating gynecologic conditions. It can show adnexal masses, help investigate pelvic pain, and contribute to a workup for infertility.
It can also find an ovarian mass before it causes any symptoms at all, which is one reason a sonogram is sometimes ordered when nothing feels wrong.
What the exam is like
- It is quick and it does not use radiation.
- Depending on what is being looked at, the scan may be done across the abdomen or internally. Your clinician will explain which and why before starting.
- You may be asked to arrive with a full bladder for an abdominal scan. We will tell you when you book.
- Your doctor goes through the findings with you.
Frequently asked questions
Is a sonogram safe?
Ultrasound uses sound waves rather than radiation and is widely used in pregnancy and gynecology.
Does it hurt?
An abdominal scan should not hurt, though a full bladder can be uncomfortable. An internal scan may feel like pressure. Tell your clinician if anything is painful.
Do I have to look at the screen?
No. Tell us and the screen will be turned away from you. You are also welcome to ask questions about what is on it.
How long does it take?
The scan itself is usually short. Plan for the visit to take longer than the scan, between checking in and going over the results.