Ultrasound and pregnancy are connected in many patients' minds. Although most patients may associate this exam exclusively with pregnancy, providers see it as an indispensable diagnostic tool that can help to improve overall gynecologic health. An ultrasound exam can not only reveal critical health information during pregnancy, but also address conditions that exist immediately before and after.
- How can physicians help educate their patients on recurrent miscarriages? Patients who have had recurrent miscarriages might feel overwhelmed by the number of "what if" scenarios that could be at play—and physicians may feel the same way trying to prepare educational materials. Some of these patients might need referrals for specialized testing, but many can be evaluated in the office through ultrasound and bloodwork. OB/GYNs can help ease patients' minds by providing a brief educational sheet outlining the broad categories that could be contributing to their pregnancy losses.
- How does ultrasound help assess ectopic pregnancy risk after embryo transfer? An infertility specialist's best efforts to place embryos in a suitable location during transfer aren't always successful, as the embryo can migrate into a fallopian tube. Both 3D and 4D ultrasound are superior to 2D in guiding placement toward the best location and tracking the embryo to predict the implantation site. Remind patients they may not have any physical symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy, and that documenting their implantation through repeat ultrasound is the safest way to lower their risk of a rupture.
- What is the optimal timing of a pregnancy confirmation exam after ART? Confirming a pregnancy after assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization or intrauterine insemination, is a two-part process. It usually involves multiple patient visits and includes both hCG tests and ultrasound exams. The exact timing of these visits will vary, but they need to be performed within industry guidelines. Some patients express concern about repeated ultrasounds, worrying that their developing embryo(s) may be harmed. Learn more about the steps necessary to document a successful pregnancy and how to allay patient anxiety about ultrasound use.
- Do patients with a prior C-section need to be examined for cesarean scar defects? Patients who are interested in becoming pregnant in the future can benefit from evaluation for a cesarean scar defect within six months of having a cesarean section. If they need treatment, sooner is better. This advice also goes for patients who are not planning another pregnancy. While a cesarean scar defect is primarily considered in terms of future pregnancies, they can cause sequelae in non-pregnant patients, as well.
- How are OB/GYNs using 3D printed ultrasound images to create anatomical models? Anatomical models created from 3D printed ultrasound images are being used more and more frequently in academic settings. A 3D printed fetal model can also be valuable in planning individual surgical cases where the anatomy is complex. An additional non-medical but exciting use for these models is showing a growing fetus to parents who are visually impaired and unable to view traditional 3D ultrasound images.
Patients may not always understand the need for repeated ultrasounds during pregnancy. Ensuring that thorough conversations are backed up by written materials can make a difference in each patient's grasp of the importance of following directions or even seeking follow-up care. The benefits and risks of ultrasound in pregnancy should always be discussed, and the patients' concerns should always be addressed before proceeding with care.
