Ultrasound
Diagnostic Ultrasound
Ultrasound (also called a sonogram) is a diagnostic technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the organs, fluids and blood flow and systems within the body. Ultrasounds for a pregnant woman’s womb creates pictures of the baby.
An ultrasound can be done as needed per your doctor's orders and is generally performed for all pregnant women. An anatomy ultrasound is usually completed around 18–20 weeks of pregnancy. All ultrasounds at Woman's Hospital are diagnostic. Gender reveal is not part of Woman’s Hospital’s diagnostic OB ultrasounds.
Doctors use ultrasound to:
- Determine how far along a woman is in her pregnancy.
- Confirm the health and growth of the fetus.
- Observe the size, shape, movement and position of the developing baby.
- Check heartbeat and kidney function.
- Detect problems, birth defects or other abnormalities in organs or tissues.
Woman’s Hospital Imaging performs ultrasounds for patients with doctor’s orders.
Please call Imaging services at 225-924-8266 to schedule.
Patients of Woman’s Maternal-Fetal Medicine may receive advanced imaging ultrasounds as needed.
Gender Determination Ultrasound
Gender determination ultrasounds may be performed in your doctor’s office as early as 16 weeks. Your physician’s office may also perform an ultrasound between 18-20 weeks. They may offer at 24 and 32 weeks to provide a three-dimensional image of your baby. Please call your doctor’s practice for service availability, for pricing and to schedule an appointment.
Contact an ultrasound facility if you want a 2D/3D/4D elective prenatal ultrasound used for gender reveal or fun.