Ultrasound is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that has gradually become an essential part of modern-day healthcare. It is a safe, painless way of creating images of the internal organs by using soundwaves. The use of ultrasound is becoming increasingly popular, especially for diagnostic procedures, such as pregnancy scans, but many people may not know much about it. In this post, we will discuss the essential aspects of ultrasound, including the types, when you may need it, how to prepare for it, and what to expect during and after the examination.

Types of Ultrasound
There are various types of ultrasound that serve different purposes. They include the following:
• Standard ultrasound: This involves scanning the body’s organs typically with a handheld probe on the skin.
• Transvaginal ultrasound: Performed for women where an ultrasound wand is inserted via the vagina to capture internal images of the reproductive organs.
• Doppler ultrasound: Used to measure blood flow in the vessels or to detect blood clots or congenital heart disease, etc.
• Echocardiogram: A type of the ultrasound that is specially designed to evaluate heart functionality.
• 3D or 4D Ultrasound: This uses advanced technology to produce a three-dimensional or even four-dimensional image of the fetus.

When Do You Need It?
Ultrasound plays a useful role in our healthcare system. Common uses include monitoring fetal development, detecting potential health issues, and monitoring certain health conditions such as arthritis, liver disease, and others. If your healthcare provider suspects that you may have a medical issue, an ultrasound may be scheduled as a part of your diagnostic workup. An ultrasound may also be ordered to monitor chronic conditions that may require frequent imaging.

Preparation for an Ultrasound
Your specific preparations for an ultrasound scan will depend on the type of study your health care provider has ordered. In some cases, you may need to avoid food and drink before your exam, while in others, it may be necessary to schedule the test around your menstrual cycle, especially for a transvaginal scan. Therefore, it’s essential to follow any instructions given to you by your healthcare provider or radiology center to ensure you receive accurate results.

What to Expect During and After Ultrasound Examination?
The actual procedure for each type of ultrasound will vary slightly. In general, though, ultrasound scans are painless and will involve a sonographer applying a special gel to the skin, which enhances the transmission of soundwaves through the body. The probe will then be moved over the skin, and images of the internal organs are created on a screen. After the procedure, the gel is cleaned off, and you will usually be able to resume your normal activities right away.