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Ultrasound Specialist

Dr. Jose F. De Leon, M.D., P.A.

OBGYNs located in Dallas, TX & Irving, TX

Ultrasound is an effective and pain-free way to evaluate a number of conditions that affect your pelvic organs or to check the progress of your pregnancy. At Dr. Jose F. De Leon, M.D., P.A., Dr. De Leon and Dr. Phuong Nguyen-Luu offer in-office ultrasounds at practice locations in Dallas and Irving, Texas. To learn more about ultrasound and whether you’d benefit from the diagnostic test, call one of the offices or book an appointment online.

Ultrasound Q & A

What is an ultrasound?

An ultrasound, also called a sonogram, is a diagnostic test that uses sound technology. During an exam, one of the doctors or a technician applies a wand (transducer) to the surface of your skin at the area to be examined. The ultrasound waves are sent through soft tissue and fluids and bounce off dense surfaces, such as organs or masses. These sounds, which cannot be heard by the human ear, are then translated into images by a special computer.

In a transvaginal ultrasound, the transducer is placed into your vagina.

What is an ultrasound used for?

You may be familiar with ultrasounds to confirm and evaluate prenatal health and growth. An ultrasound can also check the sex of the baby. Other uses for an ultrasound include:

  • Diagnosing irregular bleeding
  • Determining the cause of pelvic pain
  • Checking for fibroids or cysts on the pelvic organs
  • Following up on infertility treatments

A transvaginal ultrasound may be recommended to check on an early pregnancy, to evaluate ovulation, or to examine specific reproductive organs more clearly.

Do ultrasounds hurt?

An ultrasound is noninvasive, so it requires no incisions or needles. It’s generally not painful, though you might feel a bit of cold from the wand or the gel that’s applied to allow the transducer to move smoothly.

How do I prepare for an ultrasound?

You don’t need to do anything special before an ultrasound. In some ultrasounds, Dr. De Leon or Dr. Nguyen-Luu will ask you to drink four to six glasses of water prior to the test so your bladder is full. A full bladder helps provide a better image during the test.

Do ultrasounds involve radiation?

One of the benefits of ultrasound is that it does not involve radiation like X-rays do. This makes ultrasounds safe for prenatal evaluations.

Is there any downtime following an ultrasound?

No. An ultrasound is noninvasive and involves no medication, so you can go right back to your normal activities following the test. Ultrasounds involve no known side effects.

To learn more about prenatal and diagnostic ultrasounds, call one of the offices or book an appointment online.