Maternal fetal ultrasound
We help monitor your baby’s growth and development during pregnancy. Our maternal-fetal medicine specialists use advanced imaging to provide detailed information and compassionate guidance every step of the way.
Maternal-fetal services
Atlantic Health provides routine obstetrical ultrasound exams, as well as early prenatal diagnosis and treatment of complex fetal abnormalities. We are fully accredited by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine and our highly qualified perinatal sonographers are registered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Every exam is reviewed by a perinatologist who is readily available if any questions or problems should arise.
Services include:
(Appointment time: approximately 30 minutes per baby)
This is a basic ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy and gestational age of the baby.
(Appointment time: approximately 30 minutes per baby)
This test is a combination of an ultrasound and blood work, the results of which are used to estimate a specific risk for Down syndrome and trisomies 18 and 13. The ultrasound is performed between 11 and 13 weeks. The amount of fluid behind the baby’s neck, also known as the nuchal translucency, is measured at this time.
(Appointment time: approximately 60 minutes)
This test that determines the chromosomes of the baby. Depending on the location of the placenta, a CVS is performed through the abdomen or vagina to remove a small sample of cells from the placenta. This test is performed between 11 and 13 weeks and is the only one that requires a full bladder. Patients must meet with a genetic counselor prior to this appointment.
(Appointment time: approximately 30 minutes)
If a doctor feels there is a risk of preterm labor or if there is a history of cervical surgery, he will use this test to take several measurements inside the vagina. It is performed at approximately 16 to 28 weeks. In some cases, a fetal fibronectin test may also be performed every two weeks to help further assess the risk of preterm delivery.
(Appointment time: approximately 60 minutes)
This test determines the chromosomes of the baby and screens for spina bifida. During the procedure, a needle is placed into the abdomen and a small amount of amniotic fluid is removed. Amniocentesis is performed after 16 weeks gestation. Patients must meet with a genetic counselor prior to this appointment.
(Appointment time: approximately 60 minutes per baby)
Performed at approximately 20 weeks, this test takes detailed measurements and ultrasound images of the baby, including the heart, brain, spine and abdomen. A full bladder is not needed, however, sometimes all of the images necessary cannot be obtained and the patient may be asked to return in a week or two.
(Appointment time: approximately 60 minutes per baby)
If certain maternal medical conditions exist, this ultrasound may be ordered to take detailed images of the baby’s heart. It is typically performed at 22 to 24 weeks and may require a referral to a pediatric cardiologist.
(Appointment time: approximately 30 minutes per baby)
Ordered routinely at different times and for various reasons during a pregnancy, this test assesses the baby’s size or estimated fetal weight. Measurements of the head, arm, leg and abdomen are taken and plotted on a graph.
(Appointment time: approximately 30 minutes per baby)
These tests; which consist of a biophysical profile, a non-stress test or both; assess the baby and its environment, providing reassurance of fetal well-being for one week.
(Appointment time: approximately 60 minutes)
This ultrasound procedure determines the shape and lining of the non-pregnant uterus to rule out any anomalies.
These tests are used to assess fetal abnormalities and may be done in conjunction with other exams.
In certain cases, Doppler studies will be used to assess fetal well-being and may be done in conjunction with other exams.
Maternal-fetal ultrasound FAQs
Pregnant women often have questions about ultrasounds. Here are some of the most common:
All of our sonographers are registered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography and have extensive experience in high-risk obstetrical ultrasound. Our center is certified by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, and all of our ultrasounds are reviewed by physicians who are board-certified (or board-eligible) in maternal-fetal medicine.
No, with the exception of a chorionic villus sampling (CVS), which requires a full bladder.
Yes, you can eat and drink normally.
Yes – just remember that the room is dark and you are on the exam table for quite a long period of time. You are permitted up to three visitors in the room. A young child must be accompanied by another adult who is able to take the child outside if they become disruptive during the exam.
All reports are usually faxed within 24 hours of your visit.
No, but you will be given pictures of your baby.
We have 3D ultrasound machines at our center only to assist in diagnosis.