What happens at ultrasounds?
What is Ultrasound? Ultrasound examinations use high frequency sound waves to look inside the body. The sound waves are so high the human ear cannot hear them. The sound waves are directed at the internal body part from a small, vibrating crystal in a hand-held scanner (called a tranducer). The scanner reflects the sound or ‘echoes’ to create an image. An ultrasound scan doesn’t produce high quality images, but it is non-invasive and doesn’t involve radiation. It is commonly used to study the abdominal organs, pelvic organs and breast tissue. Ultrasound is particularly useful for finding abnormalities in pregnancy and in the female pelvic organs. How is it preformed? Before the scan, a gel is spread onto the skin to allow the ultrasound waves to pass from the transducer into the body. The transducer is moved across the skin until a good image can be found. Finally, it is held in place while the images are recorded. Is a full bladder needed? When women are not pregnant, or in the early
You will probably be asked to lie down on a bed or table for the scan. Clothing over the area to be scanned is removed, and a special warm oil or gel is applied to the skin. This is to achieve good contact as the transducer is passed back and forth. Ultrasonic waves are inaudible and cause no sensation, though pressure from the transducer may be uncomfortable. The scan usually takes about 15 minutes. During the procedure, you will probably be able to watch the ultrasound images on the screen attached to the scanner. When a scan is performed in conjunction with a biopsy, a local anesthetic reduces or eliminates any discomfort. Normal activities can be resumed immediately after the test. Ultrasound is very safe and painless, so there is little risk.
