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01027.txt
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1994-01-17
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$Unique_ID{BRK01027}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Are Ultrasound Tests Bad?}
$Subject{ultrasound Special procedure Procedures Laboratory test Tests
pregnancies Childbirth multiple pregnancy abnormality fetus abnormalities}
$Volume{P-0, K-0}
$Log{}
Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
Are Ultrasound Tests Bad?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
QUESTION: I am about to enter the 4th month of my first pregnancy, and my
doctor is suggesting that I have a screening ultrasound examination. My
mother, who is very conservative, tells me she has heard bad things about the
tests, and doesn't want me to have it. Help! I need some information.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANSWER: Sure, put Dr. B. in the soup between your doctor and your mother!
Actually both parties have some arguments in their favor, and you are the one
that must make the final decision. In favor of the screening procedure are
its ability to diagnose the presence of a multiple pregnancy early on, the
ability to date the length of your pregnancy and help predict the due date,
and, most important, the early detection of an abnormality in the developing
fetus. Against this impressive array of positives, are considerations of
cost, the availability of blood tests to determine some abnormalities, and
though at present there is no evidence of ill effects from ultrasound, the
possibility of long term effects have not yet been discovered. Despite Mom's
opposition, I think that the secret of a good decision lies in a frank and
open discussion with your doctor, to appreciate his reasons and concerns and
the information he is seeking to obtain from this examination.
----------------
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.