Ultrasound
Ultrasounds for Pregnant Patients
Learn MoreAn ultrasound, also called sonography, is a noninvasive imaging exam that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body. While ultrasound exams are perhaps most well known for their use during pregnancy, they can also help providers diagnose lumps and abnormalities throughout the body and guide biopsies and aspirations.
Our radiologists use high-resolution, state-of-the-art ultrasound equipment to provide outstanding detail in a compassionate, caring environment. We have radiologists on staff who subspecialize in reading ultrasounds, providing you with even more accuracy and expertise.
We offer ultrasound studies of the:
How an Ultrasound Works
During an ultrasound, a machine sends a sound wave that hits an object in the body, and then bounces back. As the ultrasound machine measures the sound waves, it creates images of the size, shape and consistency of the object.
Depending on your situation, your radiologist may use a Doppler ultrasound study, which can evaluate blood flow through your blood vessels in the abdomen, arms, legs, and neck.
Why You May Need an Ultrasound
Your physician may order an ultrasound if you have pain, swelling, or infection in your:
- Blood vessels
- Breasts
- Gallbladder
- Heart
- Kidneys
- Liver
- Pancreas
- Spleen
- Thyroid
- Uterus
Your provider may also recommend an ultrasound to:
- Further evaluate a suspicious spot on an MRI scan
- Evaluate abnormal nipple discharge
- Screen patients with high-density breast tissue
Ultrasounds can help diagnose conditions including:
- Abdominal pain or distention
- Abnormal liver function
- Aortic aneurysm
- Blood vessel blockage or narrowing
- Enlarged abdominal organ
- Gallbladder or kidney stones
- Organ damage
- Tumors
Benefits of an Ultrasound Exam
Ultrasound exams cause no known side effects. The benefits of an ultrasound include:
- Does not expose you to any radiation
- Is noninvasive and does not require needles or incisions
- Is painless
- Provides a clear image of soft tissue that doesn't show up well on X-rays
- Is less expensive than other imaging methods
- Can be performed as often as needed with no side effects
- Is easily available at many imaging centers
- Is safe for pregnant patients and unborn babies
- Provides real-time imaging, which is helpful for guiding needle biopsies and aspirations
Limits of an Ultrasound Exam
Ultrasounds have a few limits:
- Ultrasound waves can be disrupted by gas or air, so it is not ideal for imaging bowel issues or organs hidden by the bowel.
- It can be difficult to get an accurate image in patients who are overweight or obese. Their tissue weakens the sound waves as they must pass deeper into the body.
- Ultrasound cannot penetrate bone, so it can only provide images of the outside of a bony structure.
Types of Ultrasounds at Baystate Health
Ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive imaging method used during pregnancy and for many other medical purposes. The exam does not use any radiation. Because of its clear images and safety, ultrasound remains an important tool in prenatal care and general health.
Pregnancy Ultrasounds
Ultrasound is an essential and safe technology used to monitor fetal development and patient pregnancy health. Screening in the first, second, and third trimesters provides vital information about your pregnancy and helps guide medical decisions.
Some high-risk pregnancy cases may call for more advanced imaging ultrasounds and detailed assessments from your healthcare provider. A quick overview of these prenatal services includes:
- First Trimester: Early confirmation of pregnancy location, dating, and evaluation of maternal anatomy.
- Second Trimester: Detailed anatomical survey to assess your baby’s organs and structures.
- Third Trimester: Monitoring growth and well-being in higher-risk pregnancies.
A fetal echocardiogram is a specialized ultrasound that takes a closer look at your unborn baby’s heart. It uses sound waves to create images showing how the heart is formed and how well it is working. This test helps doctors detect any problems with the baby’s heart structure or function before birth, so they can plan for the best possible care.
We use 3D ultrasound to help diagnose certain birth defects, like clubbed feet or cleft lip and palate. We don’t offer 3D ultrasounds for keepsake images but may give you some pictures to take home. The quality of these images depends on the baby's position, amniotic fluid, stage of pregnancy, your weight, and any past abdominal surgeries.
How to prepare for an ultrasound exam
Your provider will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for your ultrasound exam. In general, you can expect to:
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to the exam
- Remove clothing covering the body part being examined
What to expect during an ultrasound
You will be asked to lie on your back on an exam table. Your technologist will apply a clear, water-based gel to the body part that will be studied, such as your abdomen. The gel helps the machine make contact with your body and eliminates air pockets.
The technologist will then sweep a transducer across the area being studied. The exam should be painless and last approximately 30 minutes to an hour.
For some procedures, like a transesophageal echocardiogram, your technologist will attach the transducer to a probe to examine inside your body through a natural opening, such as your mouth. Your provider will let you know before the exam if you need this type of ultrasound.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
Your provider will tell you what you need to do to prepare for your ultrasound procedure. Ask your health care provider if you have any questions leading up to your procedure. (You do not need to prepare for the following ultrasound procedures: renal, testicular, transanal, head, hip, spine, chest, thyroid, soft tissue, leg, and arm.)
Preparing for An Abdomen Ultrasound
Your provider will recommend slightly different preparations for you depending on your age. Pre-procedure fasting instructions are as follows:
- 11 years and over: Fast for 8 hours
- 5 years - 10 yrs old: Fast for 6 hours
- 2 years - 4 years old: Fast for 6 hours
- 1 year and under: Fast for 3 hours
Medications may be taken with small sips of water or apple juice.
Preparing for a Pelvic or Bladder Ultrasound
Your provider will recommend that you consume water (without going to the bathroom) before your procedure as follows:
- Adults: Drink 32 oz of water (four 8 oz glasses) 1 hour before your test.
- Children 3-12 years old: Drink 16-24 oz of water (two to three 8 oz glasses) on the way to the hospital.
- Children 0-2 years old: Drink as much fluid as possible (without voiding) while riding to the hospital.
Preparation for Transrectal Ultrasound
Receiving Results
After your ultrasound, results are typically sent to your provider within 24 hours. Your provider will review findings with you according to their usual practice—during a follow-up appointment, a call, or your health portal.
Ultrasound reports can be requested through Baystate Medical Records.
Filming of the medical portion of the ultrasound test is not allowed. Ultrasound imaging can be requested through the film library:
- BMC/ 3300 Film Library: 794-3333, option 4
- Baystate Noble Film Library: 571-0710
- BFMC Film Library: 773-2234
- Baystate Wing Film Library: 370-7011
- BBWC/BRI Film Library: 322-4623
Back to Top