Ultrasounds
Ultrasounds are a safe and painless imaging method that produces images of the body’s internal structure through the use of high-frequency sound waves.
What are ultrasounds?
Ultrasounds (also known as a sonography) are a safe and painless imaging method that produces images of the body’s internal structure through the use of high-frequency sound waves. These images are very helpful for confirming or monitoring a pregnancy, but they also allow doctors to diagnose issues. Ultrasound devices are commonly used on the outside of the body, though some examinations may be slightly more invasive (like transvaginal ultrasounds and sonohysterographies).
An ultrasound can help to:
- View the ovaries and uterus during pregnancy
- Examine breast lumps
- Evaluate blood flow
- Check the thyroid gland
- Assess joint inflammation
- Review metabolic bone disease
- Guide a needle for a biopsy
- Diagnose diseases of internal organs
What is a transvaginal ultrasound?
A transvaginal (or endovaginal) ultrasound is an internal examination of the female reproductive organs. Unlike a pelvic or abdominal ultrasound, where the transducer (wand) rests on the outside of the pelvis, a transvaginal exam involves your OB/GYN inserting the transducer 2-3 inches into the vaginal canal.
Transvaginal ultrasounds are performed to check for:
- Infertility
- Uterine fibroids or cysts
- Abnormal/irregular vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic pain
- Proper placement of an IUD (intrauterine device) for birth control
- An ectopic pregnancy (when the fetus implants outside of the uterus)
They may also be recommended during pregnancy to check for abnormalities, diagnose a possible miscarriage or confirm an early pregnancy.
What is a sonohysterography?
A sonohysterography is a special kind of ultrasound, in which a thin, plastic tube is inserted into the cervix in order to add fluid into the uterus. Sound waves are used to create images of the uterine lining. The fluid used in this procedure will provide more detail to the images and can help OB/GYNs (like Dr. Taaly Silberstein) check for uterine fibroids, scar tissue inside the uterus, blockages of the fallopian tubes and issues with the uterine lining or shape.
Request your appointment in the greater Los Angeles area
An ultrasound requires little preparation on your part. Dr. Silberstein will notify you of everything you need to know before your appointment. To request your consultation at our office in Tarzana, give us a call at (818) 996-3200.
