At Contemporary OB/GYN of Western Kentucky, we are proud to have two very talented and capable Ultrasound Technologists that perform all of our ultrasound examinations, Angie Short and Sarah Herring.  All ultrasounds, with the  exception of OB Growth and Development Ultrasounds, are performed in-office.  Since we have two ultrasound machines,  the Receptionist will specify whether your exam will be in our Main Office or in our Ultrasound & Fetal Monitoring Center.

What happens during the ultrasound portion of my first OB visit?

At your first OB visit, you will have a brief ultrasound examination to determine your due date (EDD) and to check fetal size and heart rate.

What is Nuchal Translucency?

This is a highly specialized ultrasound exam that is only performed on an advanced ultrasound machine by an Ultrasound Technologist certified in Nuchal Translucency.  This ultrasound is performed between 12 and 14 weeks of pregnancy.  It checks fetal well-being, monitors fetal size, and tests for genetic disorders and birth defects.

When will I discover the gender of my baby?

If you choose to discover the gender of your baby, it will be revealed to you during your Growth and Development Ultrasound (around 18 weeks).  

What is the Growth & Development Ultrasound?

This is the only ultrasound throughout pregnancy that is not performed within our office.  It is performed around the 18th week of pregnancy.  This ultrasound will be scheduled for you by our office at a diagnostic center.  If you wish to know the gender of your baby, it will be revealed to you at this time.

What is a Biophysical Profile?

A biophysical profile (BPP) test measures your baby's health in pregnancy and is performed after 28 weeks of pregnancy.  The areas that are tested include:

A BPP test may be ordered when the baby is not very active during fetal monitoring (for more information on fetal monitoring, please visit the Fetal Monitoring section of our website).   This test is commonly done in the last trimester of pregnancy.  A full bladder is best when performing this ultrasound.

What is a 3D/4D Ultrasound?

This ultrasound is performed after 28 weeks of pregnancy.  The Technologist first checks fetal well-being, amniotic fluid levels, fetal movement, fetal size, fetal heart rate, fetal muscle tone, and fetal breathing.  The 3D/4D portion of the exam enables the mother to see images of her child's face, expressions, hands, feet, etc. (all depending upon the baby's position and amniotic fluid levels).  Pictures are taken at this time for keepsakes. We do not apply additional charges for 3D/4D ultrasounds.   

CLICK HERE to view the 3D/4D Ultrasound Gallery.

Overview: 

Gynecological ultrasounds are used to evaluate internal organs including the uterus and ovaries.  The exam also scans for cysts and tumors.  Ultrasounds are scheduled by physician order only.  Your physician may request an ultrasound exam for many reasons including but not limited to pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, or medical history.  Gynecological ultrasounds may also be used as annual screening tools.

Procedure:

You will be asked to undress from the waist down.  Most exams take between fifteen and thirty minutes to perform.  Gynecological ultrasounds are usually peformed vaginally.  This means that the Technologist will be imaging the pelvic

organs by inserting a small probe into the vagina.  The exam should not be painful.  After the exam is finished, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled so that your physician can share your results with you.