What happens during an ultrasound?A ultrasound usually includes the following steps:You will lie on a table, exposing the area that’s being viewed.A health care provider will spread a special gel on the skin over that area.The provider will move a wand-like device, called a transducer, over the area.The device sends sound waves into your body. The waves are so high pitched that you can’t hear them.The waves are recorded and turned into images on a monitor.You may be able to view the images as they are being made. This often happens during a pregnancy ultrasound, allowing you to look at your unborn baby.After the test is over, the provider will wipe the gel off your body.The test takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete.In some cases, a pregnancy ultrasound may be done by inserting the transducer into the vagina. This is most often done early in pregnancy.
