Roy Pitkin, M.D., is a professor of obstetrics and
gynecology and is the former chair of the ob/gyn
department at the University of California, Los
Angeles School of Medicine. He is a frequent advisor
to national health agencies on women's health issues and has
received numerous international honors for this work.
Q:What's the difference between a Level 1 and Level 2 ultrasound?
A: Ultrasound is a diagnostic technique that uses sound waves produced by a small crystal that bounce off internal tissues to create images of the fetus. A Level 1 ultrasound can determine the number of fetuses, where they're positioned, size, placental location, amniotic fluid volume, and any grossly evident abnormalities. A Level 2 ultrasound is a more detailed and time-consuming examination that focuses closely on fetal anatomy with the specific aim of identifying any malformations.
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