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There are many reasons for using ultrasound. The most common include: 1) to determine the age
and size of the baby; 2) to determine the location of the placenta; and 3) to rule out the
presence of a multiple pregnancy. Sometimes the sex of the baby can be determined at the time
of your ultrasound. Decide if you would like to have this information. In some selected cases,
ultrasound helps determine the presence or absence of certain birth defects or abnormalities.
Ultrasound is a very useful diagnostic test. However, it should not be used indiscriminately.
To date, there are no known harmful effects from the use of diagnostic ultrasound. If an
ultrasound is necessary during your pregnancy, be sure to have a clear understanding of why the
test is being done and feel free to ask questions regarding the findings. If you receive a
picture from the ultrasound, do not laminate it, as this will ruin the picture.
Non-stress Testing
A non-stress test is used to closely evaluate the condition of your baby. This test is
ordinarily ordered late in pregnancy, usually after the 32nd week, and is customarily done in
our office. A fetal heart monitor is attached to your abdomen and the baby's movements and
heart rate are recorded over a period of 20 to 30 minutes. The information obtained from this
test helps us to decide a course of action related to your pregnancy.
Biophysical Profile
Sometimes ultrasound and non-stress testing are used together. When we do this, we are
conducting a physical exam of the baby. We rate baby activity, baby muscle tone, the presence
or absence of breathing movements, the amount of amniotic fluid and the placenta's condition.
This test is one more way for us to evaluate the current health of your baby.
Note: This information applies only to Lansing OB/GYN Associates.
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