All you need to know about different types of ultrasound scans

by Rashi S. Blogger

Doctors in general recommend ultrasound during mid to late pregnancy. Besides pregnancy, ultrasound helps in fertility testing and treatment.

During pregnancy, abdominal ultrasounds are done in which the examiner uses a transducer that emits sound waves and is moved over the abdomen using a gel to create two-dimensional imagery for the analysis of the foetus inside the womb.

Other than abdominal ultrasounds, transvaginal ultrasounds are done via the vagina. This type of ultrasound is used for fertility testing and treatment and is conducted using a slender specialised wand. During the ultrasound, a condom is placed on the slender-shaped transducer along with lubricant gel which is then gently inserted into the vagina, as far as it can comfortably go. It helps in the examination of internal organs.

Although ultrasounds are not painful, they can be a bit uncomfortable.

The write-up mentions different types of ultrasound scans.

Types of ultrasound

Typically, there are two types of ultrasound – abdominal and transvaginal, but other than these two, the doctor may request:

3D ultrasound

Most ultrasounds generate two-dimensional images but 3D ultrasound is advanced and thus can generate three-dimensional images which facilitate the better diagnosis of uterine abnormalities and fallopian tube issues.

Antral follicle count ultrasound

It helps determine ovarian reserves and may help detect hormonal disorder like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

Hysterosalpingo-Contrast Sonography (HyCoSy)

It helps determine whether the fallopian tubes are open or blocked. Used more commonly by doctors, this ultrasound is less discomforting than an HSG, which is a specialised X-ray.

Sonohysterogram

It is a specialised ultrasound in which a saline solution is transferred into the uterus via a catheter. After the saline solution fills the uterus, it helps in easy visualisation of the shape and any possible adhesions within. This ultrasound is for a basic fertility test.

So, these are a few types of ultrasounds that are recommended by doctors in different scenarios.