Ultrasound studies or sonograms will be performed at specific times in the course of your pregnancy:
1. Initial OB visit- The study is done to verify pregnancy, determine the gestational age, obtain fetal heart tones, and search the adnexal region for pelvic masses.
2. 9-12 weeks: At this stage in your pregnancy a study is done to determine the fetal heart rate, the dating parameter, and fetal activity (movement of limbs).
3. 18-20 weeks: At this time a study is done to scan the fetal organs and dating parameters for growth and weight, and determine the general well being of the fetus. During this scan the gender of the baby can be identified. Please note, if the mother wants to know the sex of the baby this is the only time the information can be given.

Sonograms generally take about 30 minutes and no preparation is needed prior to the study.

It may be necessary to do additional studies under the following conditions:
1. Elevated Quad Screen
2. Increased or decreased in fundal height
3. Fetal heart tones not detected with doppler
4. Determine position of fetus
5. Determine the amniotic fluid
6. Problems with pain or bleeding