Ultrasound images are reviewed by radiologists, who then provide the results to you or your health-care provider. Throughout your pregnancy, ultrasounds are scheduled for various purposes as your baby develops.
The earliest ultrasound, known as a dating ultrasound, can be arranged by your health-care provider between seven- and nine-weeks of pregnancy to confirm your pregnancy and estimate your due date. In most cases, this happens before your first visit at Mount Sinai Hospital.
At Mount Sinai, all prenatal ultrasounds are done at the Centre of Excellence in Obstetric Ultrasound (CEOU).
At CEOU, we provide several types of ultrasounds, including the following.
Routine prenatal ultrasounds
- Nuchal translucency ultrasound (11 to 13.5 weeks of pregnancy)
- Anatomy ultrasound (18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy)
Learn more about nuchal translucency and anatomy ultrasounds at Prenatal Screening Ontario.
Advanced fetal imaging
- Early anatomy ultrasound
- Echocardiogram
- Neurosonogram
- Fetal MRI
What to expect
Before your appointment
Please arrive 15 minutes early for your scheduled appointment. If you are late, your appointment may be rescheduled.
If you are in the first trimester of your pregnancy, do not empty your bladder for one hour before the exam. You can eat and drink normally. No special preparation is needed for second and third trimester ultrasounds.
At your ultrasound
The length of your appointment depends on your pregnancy and the type of obstetric ultrasound you are having.
Most exams will take 30 to 60 minutes, but it might be longer if you have a multiple (twins or more) pregnancy.
Our team tries to stay on time, but your appointment may be delayed by unforeseen circumstances. It is a good idea to be prepared in case your appointment runs late.
If you want a physician other than your referring physician copied on the results report, please let our receptionist know before your test.
After your ultrasound
The images will be reviewed by our on-site radiologist or by a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialist, and the results will be sent to your health-care provider within five business days. In some cases, the MFM specialist may review the report with you privately at the end of your appointment.
If you are interested, you can buy a DVD of up to five images.
What to bring
- Health (OHIP) card or valid health-care coverage
- A bag to store your personal belongings
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
- A support person, if needed
