Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves along with a computer to generate a picture of internal organs as they function. A hand-held transducer is placed over a body part, and a high frequency sound wave is emitted. The transducer then acts as a microphone to listen for the return signal. The difference in time between these two events is transformed into a moving image by a special computer. Doppler ultrasound works similar to the Doppler radar images you may have seen on television. It produces color images of blood flow through various vessels and organs, such as the heart (echocardiogram). During pregnancy, ultrasound is a key tool in checking a baby’s health and development and is considered safe for mother and baby.
Ultrasound is a common diagnostic procedure in which the patient will experience little or no discomfort. There are no known dangers or side effects related with ultrasound, because it does not require the use of radiation, special dyes or anesthesia.