(Note: This information is intended for general education purposes only, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice.)

Definition: An obstetrical ultrasound (sonogram) examination uses high frequency sound waves to create an "echo" image of the fetus.

Safety: Ultrasound in pregnancy is considered quite safe and has been done routinely for more than 20 years. There is no reliable evidence of physical harm to human fetuses from diagnostic ultrasound imaging. However, experts agree that casual use of ultrasonography, especially during pregnancy, should be avoided.

Indications: Obstetrical ultrasounds should only be done for clear medical indications.

Cost: None; all services, including ultrasound, are provided free of charge at Care Net.

Medical services at the Care Net Center include limited obstetrical ultrasounds for appropriate candidates. Ultrasounds are performed after physician evaluation for the following medical indications:

1. Confirmation of pregnancy
2. Viability (presence of a heartbeat)
3. Gestational age

Note: Care Net Pregnancy Center does not provide or refer for abortion or abortifacients.

• ACOG Practice Bulletin; "Ultrasonography in Pregnancy"; December 2004; number 58