Ultrasound Services

MFM specialists are experts in diagnostic ultrasound and play an important role in screening for fetal chromosome abnormalities and birth defects. Our perinatologists provide expert consultations for families who have learned of a birth defect and work with their obstetrician, genetic counselor and pediatric surgeons to determine the best plan of care for mother and fetus. It is important to note that not all birth defects can be identified while you are pregnant.

Dating Scan/Viability Scan

This ultrasound exam is ideally performed in the first trimester . At this time, we establish a due date and determine if the pregnancy is growing properly within your uterus. We also evaluate for multiples and check to see if your ovaries are healthy.

First trimester screening

This ultrasound examination is time sensitive and must be performed between 11 and 14 week’s gestation. A measurement of the lymphatic fluid at the back of the baby’s neck is obtained. The presence or absence of the fetal nasal bone is also documented (absent nasal bone may be associated with an increased risk for chromosomal abnormalities). The results are combined with your age and a special blood test to determine if your pregnancy is at increased risk for certain chromosomal abnormalities. This ultrasound can also detect whether or not your baby is at an increased risk for heart abnormalities. This exam should be performed by a certified medical provider. At Georgia Perinatal, all of our sonographers and physicians are Nuchal Translucency and Nasal Bone certified. We also offer cell-free DNA testing.

Early Anatomy Scan

This ultrasound is most often performed between 14 and 16 weeks. Your baby’s anatomy is evaluated for possible birth defects.

Detailed/Targeted Anatomy Scan

This ultrasound is most often performed between 20 and 22 weeks because most features of your baby’s anatomy can be better visualized at this time. During this ultrasound, your baby is literally checked from head to toe and all of the baby’s organs and anatomy are evaluated for structural and genetic defects.

Biometry/Growth Ultrasound

A growth ultrasound is performed to determine an estimated weight of your baby. Some patients have a medical condition necessitating that the doctor monitor the baby’s weight throughout the course of the pregnancy. It is important to note that this weight is an “estimate” and actual birth weight and estimated fetal weight can differ. This exam is also performed to evaluate the cause of growth disturbances which may include infection, placenta insufficiency, and chromosomal or genetic disorders.

Biophysical Profilemobile3

This ultrasound examination is used to assess the health of your baby. Movement, tone, breathing and amniotic fluid volume are checked to help determine the well-being of your baby inside your uterus.

3D/4D Ultrasound

3D/4D ultrasound may be utilized to visualize certain anatomical parts and rule out birth defects.

Doppler Ultrasound

Doppler ultrasound is a specialized exam that allows physicians to measure blood flow through the umbilical cord, fetal brain and heart. These tests help determine whether the fetus is getting enough oxygen and nutrients, or if it might be better off born.

Cervical Length

A cervical length ultrasound measures the length or your cervix. You made need this test if you are having symptoms of preterm labor such as contractions or pressure or if you have a previous history of preterm labor and or preterm delivery. We also routinely check the cervix if you are pregnant with multiples.

Placenta Evaluation

Transvaginal ultrasound may be used to identify the location of your placenta. We may perform this test if you have a history of vaginal bleeding or if your placenta looks like it may be near your cervix.

Fetal Echocardiogram

This is a special ultrasound of the baby’s heart. This test may be required if you have a family history of congenital heart defects, have certain medical conditions or have undergone IVF treatment.

Ultrasound Assessment of Amniotic Fluid

Using ultrasound, we can estimate whether a baby has too little fluid (oligohydramnios) or too much (polyhydramnios). Both too much and too little fluid can be associated with chromosome issues or poor obstetrical outcomes. Patients with abnormal amniotic fluid levels are monitored closely and adjustments with your due date are communicated to your obstetrician.

Multiple Gestation Pregnancy (Twins/Triplets)

The more babies you carry, the more your risk increases for complications including early labor, growth restriction and chromosomal issues. In some cases, babies share a single placenta, which can lead to uneven blood flow causing twin-twin transfusion syndrome. If you are pregnancy with multiples you will receive more frequent care to properly manage your pregnancy.

Non-Stress Test (NST)

A NST observes the baby’s heart rate while the baby moves. Two monitors are placed on your abdomen. One will record the baby’s movements and/or uterine contractions, while the other records the baby’s heart rate. Fetal activity with a rise in the baby’s heart rate is a good indication of fetal well-being. This test usually takes 30 minutes to complete.