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Perinatal Center of Iowa has
been accredited in Obstetric Ultrasound by the American Institute of
Ultrasound in Medicine since 1996. Utilizing state-of-the-art high
resolution ultrasound machines, we are able to assess a pregnancy from
conception through delivery. One of our physicians
is present to interpret the ultrasound and review the findings with the
patient prior to their leaving the clinic. Below is a brief explanation
of the various types of ultrasounds that we perform and the ideal
gestational ages for 
each exam.
*The ultrasound form is in Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) and you will need the Adobe Acrobat Reader to view or print these files. If you are not using Netscape Communicator 4.0 or newer or Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 or newer, you will need to download and install the free Adobe Acrobat Reader, which you may download from here.
Evaluations are almost exclusively done transvaginally. This exam can be done between approximately 6-13 weeks gestation. Ideal for assessing viability and to accurately determine gestational age, this is also a good age to diagnose a multiple gestation. A first trimester genetic screen for early assessment of Down syndrome is now available in our office between 11-14 weeks utilizing a blood test in combination with a nuchal thickness measurement.
A
transvaginal cervical length measurement can be performed between 14 –
26 weeks gestation in patients at risk of incompetent cervix. In
addition, in certain patients with preterm labor symptoms, cervical
length may be utilized to assess risk of preterm delivery.
Performed after 14 weeks gestation, this examination will assess fetal number, fetal growth, basic fetal anatomy, amniotic fluid volume, and fetal and placental positions.
This examination is ideally performed between 18-24 weeks gestation and in addition to that described for a complete ultrasound, this exam assesses multiple genetic markers and includes a detailed assessment of fetal anatomy. Some indications for this examination include increased risk for a chromosomal abnormality (ie, advanced maternal age), prior child with birth defect, suspected birth defect on previous ultrasound, or exposure to medications or chemicals during the pregnancy. The physicians and sonographers in this office have both the experience and the training necessary to provide this high level of ultrasound assessment.
This is a
targeted evaluation of the fetal heart performed by one of the
physicians in this office. This exam is best performed after 18 weeks
gestation. Indications include a family history of congenital heart
disease, preexisting diabetes, or exposure to certain medications.
Generally performed after 28 weeks, this examination provides an assessment of fetal well-being by looking at the baby’s activity level and fluid volume. This exam is often performed in conjunction with a nonstress test. Some indications for this test include suspicion for fetal growth delay, maternal conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, or a suspected fetal anomaly.
Three dimensional ultrasound (called “4D” when performed in real time) holds potential for improved prenatal assessment of the developing fetus. We are currently expanding our 3D capabilities in this office in order to better serve the women who come to us for their ultrasounds.
Please note that it is no longer necessary for women to come to the clinic with full bladders for obstetric ultrasounds.
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