Common Questions

2D, 3D or 4D Ultrasound. What is the difference?

Many individuals have undergone ultrasound examinations, but not everyone understands the basic concepts. Ultrasound is a form of enery that uses high frequency sound waves that bounce back from fluids, tissues and bones, very much like an echo does in an empty room. These sound waves are detected by a receiver called a transducer, and then converted into pictures of the internal organs. The type of transducer determines what the image looks like.

During the pregnancy, ultrasound is a useful diagnostic tool that is safe and noninvasive. Evalutaions of the placenta, fetus, and amniotic fluid are commonly made. Conformation of pregnancy dating and detailed anatomic scans are common uses.

A 3D ultrasound processes thousands of images and uses a computer to assemble the images into one large piece. The images are stored and shaded. 3D images appear more lifelike than 2D images. Picture a Rubics cube in 3D form and in 2D form to better understand the difference.

The latest and most exciting advancement in ultrasound is the 4D scan. Although a 4D ultrasound is similar to 3D images, 4D has the capability to show movement of the fetus, as opposed to just a 3D image. Although many centers claim to have 3D/4D ultrasound, many actually only perform 3D images and do not have the capability or properly trained staff to perform 4D "realtime" ultrasounds. Some of these centers also do not have a registered sonographer. It is imprtant to know if your sonographer is registered in the type of ultrasound that you are undergoing. For example, an expectant mother may want to know if the sonographer is registered in performing ob/gyn scans.

Today there are ultrasound centers opening up all over the country that provided parents with pictures of their babies and help determine the gender of their child. In general these centers provide recreational imaging only. It is important for expectant parents to understand that these centers often do not have staff that are trained to interpret the images. Abnormalities my not be recognized, and interpretation of abnormalities are usually not provided, leaving an expectant mother falsely reassured or wondering about the importance of abnormal findings. Therefore it is recommended that obstetrical ultrasounds are obtained through a qualified obstetrical office or medical facility in conjunction with routine prenatal care.

I have already been diagnosed with HPV (Human Papillomavirus). Will getting the GARDASIL vaccine still help me?

Yes, you may benefit from GARDASIL if you already have HPV. It is rare for an individual to be infected with all four of the HPV subtypes contained in the vaccine. You can be protected from all of the of HPV subtypes contained in the vaccine that you have not yet been exposed to.

Contact your gynecologist for more information about HPV and the health benefits of GARDASIL.

Is it true that women are more likely to have depression than men?

Yes. Women are at least twice as likely as men to have depression. About 12 million women in the United States are dealing with depression. Women are at higher risk because of hormonal changes due to menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Women are also dealing with stresses from work, family responsibilities, and social issues. Only 1 out of 3 women dealing with depression gets properly diagnosed, usually because of embarrassment or seeing depression as a weakness in character.

Women experiencing symptoms of depression for more than a few days should see their docotor for diagnosis and treatment. Help is available.

What are hot flashes and can anything be done to prevent them?

Hot flashes are sudden sensations of flushing and heat that some women feel when they are going through menpause. They are often one of the earliest signs of menopause. To prevent hot flashes you can try the following:

-Wear loose, cotton clothing.

-Keep your home cool and use lightweight blankets.

-Limit your intake of red wine, chocolate, and aged cheese.

-Avoid smoking, caffeine, and excessive alcohol.

-See your doctor to discuss medications that are available.

Total Woman Care