Maternal-Fetal Medicine Ultrasound

The Maternal-Fetal Diagnostic Center in Peoria is the only center in the area to be accredited by the American Institute of Ultrasound and Medicine to diagnose and monitor the health and well-being of women with complex pregnancies. Our maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) providers are highly trained to evaluate your baby using advanced ultrasound techniques. Our team provides comprehensive care in Peoria, Bloomington, Galesburg, Moline and Ottawa, Illinois.

What is a MFM ultrasound?

A MFM ultrasound, or perinatal ultrasound, is a more comprehensive ultrasound than a typical fetal ultrasound. It is a precise diagnostic tool that examines the health of your baby during pregnancy. It may include a transvaginal or transabdominal ultrasound, or both, depending on your provider’s recommendations and pregnancy related issues.

What type of ultrasound is used?

We use a variety of specialized ultrasounds to monitor the health and development of your baby.

Anatomy and growth scan: Evaluates baby’s overall development
Biophysical profile: Measures fetal movements, muscle tone, breathing movements, amniotic fluid and heartbeat.
Umbilical cord doppler: Uses sound waves to measure the flow of blood through the umbilical vein and arteries

Common Conditions That Require Maternal-Fetal Ultrasound

High-risk pregnancy ultrasounds provide important information about the health and development of you and your baby. This information helps your care team identify and monitor a variety of conditions, so they can be treated and managed early.

Some common conditions include:

Complex maternal and/or fetal presentations
Diabetes
Fetal anomalies
Geriatric pregnancy
Growth restrictions
History of a complicated pregnancy
History of thromboembolism
Hypertension
Isoimmunization
Medication exposure
Maternal Congenital Heart Disease
Multiple gestation
Recurrent pregnancy loss
Seizure Disorder
Substance Use Disorder
Thrombocytopenia
Thyroid disease

What to Expect During the Ultrasound

A maternal-fetal medicine ultrasound focuses on capturing specific images of your baby to assess their health and development. Your sonographer will bring you back to the room and will begin your ultrasound. Depending on your stage of pregnancy, you may receive either a transvaginal or transabdominal ultrasound.

Our care team will share what to expect during your ultrasound and your support person is encouraged to stay with you during this time. After the ultrasound is complete, a report will be generated that a perinatologist will review while you are in the exam room.

During this time, a nurse will review your health history and vital signs and complete a focused obstetric assessment. After the ultrasound and assessment, a provider will come to your room and talk with you about the findings. They’ll discuss any needed follow-up appointments and how often you will need them.

Can I have a 3D ultrasound?

A 3D maternal-fetal ultrasound is a detailed diagnostic tool that allows our specialists to capture precise images of your baby’s development. While our team does provide 3D imagery, our equipment is reserved for women with high-risk pregnancies who need 3D images to best assess the health and development of their babies. All 3D ultrasound appointments require a referral from your OB/GYN.

Do I have to pay for a 3D ultrasound?

3D ultrasounds will be billed to your insurance, similar to a typical ultrasound.

How long will the ultrasound take?

Typically, an ultrasound takes around an hour.

Is it OK to bring family members?

We welcome your immediate family to take part in this exciting time. However, we kindly request that you refrain from bringing children.

Can anyone expecting a baby get an anatomy scan at a maternal-fetal office?

Yes, maternal-fetal medicine patients can get an anatomy scan. The sonographer will capture the anatomy of your baby at your appointment, and the perinatologist will read and interpret the findings.

Can you tell me the gender of my baby?

Yes

How often is an ultrasound given for high-risk pregnancies?

This depends on your diagnosis. It varies depending on what follow-up is needed and how far along your pregnancy is. The plan of care will be shared with you on the day of your appointment.

Locations

OSF Saint Francis Medical Center (Peoria)

OSF Maternal-Fetal Diagnostic Center

530 Northeast Glen Oak Avenue
Peoria, IL 61637

OSF Medical Group - Maternal Fetal Medicine

1050 East Norris Drive
Ottawa, IL 61350

OSF Medical Group - Gastroenterology (Bloomington)

OSF Medical Group - Maternal-Fetal Medicine

1505 Eastland Drive
Bloomington, IL 61701