FAQ

Ultrasound is very high frequency sound waves (1-17 Mhz in diagnostic ultrasound). The sound waves are transmitted into the body by the camera called a transducer. The waves reflect off the different tissues with the returning echoes detected by the transducer. The machine transforms these echoes into amazing pictures which can be viewed as a real time image. The technology is stunning.

Yes. Diagnostic ultrasound scans are safe for you and your baby.
Ultrasound is the only type of imaging that is used routinely to monitor pregnancies.

A transvaginal scan is performed with a thin transducer (ultrasound “camera”) placed in the vagina. This scan normally gives the best images of the uterus, ovaries and other pelvic structures and is excellent for looking at very early pregnancy.  The scan is normally simple and painless. The bladder is emptied and the patient covered with a sheet. A sterilised transducer with a protective cover and gel is used. The patient guides the transducer into position and the scan performed.

It is the patient’s choice to consent to an internal scan.

Yes. Transvaginal scans can be performed at any time during the menstrual cycle, including while you are having your period, but in some cases, another ultrasound may need to be performed after the next period. The preferred time for a pelvic scan is just after the period has finished, if possible.

A full bladder helps to push bowel gas (which blocks the ultrasound) out of the way and acts like a window allowing good views.Please visit our Patient Preparation section for more information.

For a female pelvic scan, most people do not need a full bladder for good scans, however sometimes we may ask you to drink more water to fill the bladder, if bowel gas is in the way.

If a transvaginal (internal scan) is to be performed, a full bladder is not required.

The anatomy scan (also known as the morphology scan) is a good time to determine the sex of the baby. Sometimes if the baby is not in a good position we may not be able to get a good view. It is possible to determine the sex earlier in pregnancy, such as the nuchal scan, but this is a less reliable time.

Once you have a signed referral form from your medical practitioner

1. Phone our rooms and talk with our friendly receptionist.

phone: (09) 277 4495 for our Botany Junction premises; phone (09 624 4292 for Three Kings Plaza

OR

2. You can email us with your details from our web site and we can contact you.

email: botany@advanceultrasound.co.nz

email: threekings@advanceultrasound.co.nz

Yes. A signed ultrasound referral form from your health professional is legally required for us to perform your scan.  We request that you email us your referral form as soon as you have made your appointment, this ensures everything is ready, and correct for your arrival.

Yes. Any ultrasound referral form signed by your health professional is acceptable.

Please visit our What to Expect Section for more information.

a. Your referral form

b. Growth chart (if you have one for pregnancy scans)

c. All previous images and reports if you have them (i.e. X-ray, Ultrasound, CT, MRI)

Please visit our Preparation Section for more information.

Yes. Please talk to our reception team on the day for access to your images.

15- 45 minutes depending on the type of scan.

Yes. Support people are most welcome, however, we may only have enough room for 1-2 extra people. If there is a language difficulty, we invite you to bring an interpreter.

Please note these guidelines may change as a result of Covid-19 alert levels.  Please check with our reception team when booking your appointment.

There are charges for all ACC and NZ resident pregnancy scans.

Please visit the Pricing Section of the website for a comprehensive list of all charges.

Patients 70yrs and over receive a$50.00 reduction on all private full fee paying examinations.

No. We do not offer 4D dedicated obstetric ultrasounds.