There are many factors that impact the length of an ultrasound, including the position of the baby in the womb.  A typical ultrasound exam for an expectant mother will last approximately 20-40 minutes.

4D means 4-Dimensional–the fourth dimension being time.  4D Ultrasound, the latest in ultrasound technology, combines 3D picture with time, resulting in “live action” images of the unborn child.

Ultrasound technology has been available since the 1970’s. Ultrasound is a safe procedure that has been used to diagnose and detect fetal problems, allowing for prompt treatment to be available at the time of delivery if needed. Advances in ultrasound technology have revolutionized modern obstetics. At Greenville OB/GYN we have excellent ultrasound capability, allowing us to diagnose many (not all) conditions as well as provide your baby’s first picture. It is recommended that all moms have an ultrasound exam between 16-18 weeks of pregnancy. At this time, measurements will be made of your baby’s head, abdomen and legs. We will also look at the brain, heart, spine, kidneys, and bladder. Measurements can allow us to confirm your due date with the one given to you at the beginning of the pregnancy. Many times we can also see the sex of the baby so let us know if you do or do not want to know. To prepare for your ultrasound, please start one hour and fifteen minutes before your appointment by empting your bladder. Then drink 16 ounces of water or another beverage. Make sure you finish this amount at least one hour before the appointment. Your bladder will be quite full and may be uncomfortable, but it really helps us to see the baby. We try to run on time for all OB ultrasounds, but please let us know if you can’t hold it anymore. Partners and other family members are welcome to come in for the ultrasound. Finally, ultrasound pictures will yellow and fade with time. To have long-term copies, bring them to Kinko’s and have color copies made, they come out great and last for a long time.

Many women have morning sickness during the early months of pregnancy. In most cases, symptoms of nausea and vomiting are less common by the second trimester. In early pregnancy, the changes in your body can cause you to feel nauseated when you eat or smell certain foods or when you get tired or anxious. It may help if you eat crackers, pretzels or dry cereal before you get out of bed in the morning. Eat small meals often. Avoid greasy, fried or spicy foods that may upset your stomach. Drink plenty of liquids, but between meals rather than with them. Try crushed ice, fruit juice, or fruit-ice pops if water makes you feel nauseous. Avoid unpleasant odors and get enough rest. Ginger has been shown to help some women have less nausea, but you should talk to your healthcare provider about this before you add ginger to your diet.