Obstetrics

Obstetrical ultrasounds are an exciting event during a pregnancy, the chance to see your baby before it is born and possibly learn the sex so you can plan the baby’s room or select a name — your medical practitioner has ordered this study for medical reasons. Family members are allowed to attend the examination.

To allow the ultrasound technologist to concentrate fully and to perform the best clinical study for you, the technologist will answer questions as time allows once all the data is recorded. Video cameras or other forms of recording are not allowed. The technologist can provide pictures, CD, or record images on a USB for a minimal charge. Patients must bring their own USB. CDs are included in the cost price.

What will the sonographer do?

The ultrasound technologist will ask you to lie on a table she will apply a gel to your skin. This will ensure that the transducer (the probe that emits the high frequency sound waves) has good contact for sound transmission. This transducer will be placed on your skin and will be moved over your pelvic area as the ultrasound technologist completes examination of your baby. You should experience no pain or discomfort from this examination.

Once the examination is completed the images and relevant clinical data will be sent to the PACS (image achieving system) for the radiologist to review and issue a report for your medical practitioner.

Integrated Prenatal Screening (IPS)

This screening test combines measurements from a nuchal trasnlucency ultrasound and two blood tests to estimate the chances of a developing baby having Down syndrome.

The IPS takes into account the measurement of the ultrasound (NT) and the level of the proteins and other substances measured in the blood tests. It then adjusts for the woman’s age and gives a numerical estimate of the chance of Down syndrome.  

In addition, unlike the first trimester screening assessment (FTS) which also screens for Down syndrome, the IPS will determine if there is an increased chance of spina bifida.

The ultrasound (NT) measurement is completed at the same time as the first blood test. The sonographer will complete the ultrasound portion of the IPS form. The ultrasound must be completed prior to the blood work the ultrasound data must be sent along with the blood test. The blood test and ultrasound data are sent to the Genetics department at Credit Valley Hospital for analysis. The second blood test does not require an ultrasound.

Results

The ultrasound and first blood test are completed between 11 weeks, 2 days and 13 weeks, 3 days of pregnancy. The second blood test is done between 15 – 18 weeks.

The results of the IPS are sent to your caregiver (obstetrician, family doctor or midwife, nurse practitioner) about 1 week after the second blood test.

How long does it take?

Early Obstetrical Scan (less than 18 weeks) 15-30 minutes
Anatomical Study (18-20 weeks)  60 minutes
Integrated Prenatal Screening (IPS) 30 minutes 
Third Trimester Ultrasound (21-40 plus weeks) 30 minutes 

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AdvantAGE Ontario

 Ontario Association of Radiology Managers - OARM

Ontario Association of Medical Radiation Sciences - OAMRS

College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario - CMRTO

Independent Diagnostic CLinics Association - IDCA