With sophisticated diagnostic technology onsite, we can conveniently screen, monitor, and evaluate patients right in our office. Having these diagnostic tests onsite also facilitates a prompt diagnosis and helps our providers develop the most effective treatment plan for you. At Women's Specialists of Clear Lake, you’ll find some of the most advanced diagnostic testing available under one roof in Webster, Texas.
The diagnostic tests we offer include:
2D, 3D, 4D Ultrasound
2D, 3D and 4D ultrasound are all ways of viewing a developing baby in the womb. Ultrasound is a non-invasive test that creates images with sound waves. 2D ultrasound is used to view outer or inner layers of a fetus, from the outer legs to the internal organs. 3D ultrasound only takes outer images and 4D ultrasound adds the element of motion. Such images provide information about fetal health and development. It also provides parents and loved ones with a first glimpse of their new family member.
Fetal Non-Stress Testing
Fetal non-stress testing (NST) is a simple test to measure the heart rate of the fetus to determine if it is receiving enough oxygen and is not in distress. Fetal non-stress testing may be performed after 28 weeks of gestation if a developing baby is overdue or has moved less than usual, to check placenta functioning, or for other reasons associated with high-risk pregnancy. The test involves placing belts on the mother’s abdomen that measure fetal heart rate and contractions. As the name implies, this pregnancy assessment is not stressful for the mother or fetus.
Biophysical Profile Testing
Biophysical profile testing uses both fetal non-stress testing and ultrasound evaluation to assess fetal health during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Biophysical profile testing is used for high-risk pregnancies or patients that are having certain symptoms. Biophysical profile testing is a non-invasive method of evaluating fetal breathing, movement, muscle tone, heart rate and amniotic fluid.
Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is a diagnostic test that may be used after about the 16th week of pregnancy. Amniocentesis is used to confirm the findings of other assessments or to detect chromosomal, neural, or inherited disorders in a developing fetus, such as Down syndrome, Hunter syndrome, or spina bifida. In the last semester of pregnancy, it is used to evaluate the lungs of a fetus. Amniocentesis involves obtaining and examining a sample of amniotic fluid from within the sac surrounding the fetus. It is commonly recommended for pregnant women over age 35.
Fetal Integrated Screening with Nuchal Translucency
Fetal integrated screening with nuchal translucency is used during pregnancy to gage the risk of chromosome abnormalities, such as Down syndrome for a fetus. Nuchal translucency uses ultrasound to measure the neck area of the fetus. The neck measurement correlates with the risk of Down syndrome. The nuchal translucency results are integrated with other fetal screenings, such as hormone (HcG) or protein measurements (AFP, PAPP-A) and considered with the age of the mother to develop a risk profile.
Harmony Prenatal Test
The Harmony Prenatal Test is a laboratory developed test that analyzes cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in maternal blood. Directed analysis purified cfDNA measures the relative proportion of chromosomes, this test is intended to aid in the risk of determination of fetal trisomies 21, 18, and 13 in women with singleton pregnancies of at least 10 weeks gestational age.
Diagnostic Gynecological Ultrasound
Diagnostic gynecological ultrasound takes real-time moving images of the reproductive organs and surrounding gastrointestinal and urinary structure. Doing this can greatly aid in diagnostic evaluation and improve the accuracy of clinical diagnosis. This may reveal pathology that is often unsuspected or overlooked, thereby facilitating the resolution for any clinical problem. It may, in fact, help you and your doctor more accurately understand what may be causing your symptoms.
Sonohysterogram
Sonohysterogram is a special type of ultrasound of the uterus. It is typically used to evaluate unexplained vaginal bleeding or uterine abnormalities in women who experience infertility or multiple miscarriages. It can be done in conjunction with a gynecological ultrasound. Sonohysterogram allows the visualization of pathology that may not be seen during an endovaginal ultrasound, which results in a high level of diagnostic accuracy.
Hysterosalpingogram
Hysterosalpingogram is a type of X-ray that is used to determine if the uterus or fallopian tubes have structural problems that may contribute to infertility. Hysterosalpingogram is also used following sterilization procedures to ensure that the fallopian tubes are closed. The procedure involves inserting a small tube through the vagina and cervix and into the uterus. Contrast dye is delivered through the tube and X-rays are taken. The contrast dye allows the uterus and fallopian tubes to be visible on the images.
Hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy uses a viewing device, a hysteroscope, to learn more information about the condition of the uterus. The hysteroscope is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. The uterus is expanded with gas to allow a close examination of the uterine wall. Hysteroscopy can be used as a diagnostic tool for infertility, unusual bleeding, polyps, fibroids or repeated miscarriages. Hysteroscopy can be used with surgical instruments to remove polyps, fibroids, or instead of or along with a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure.
Colposcopy
A colposcopy is used to determine if there are visible abnormalities on the cervix, such as after an abnormal Pap smear. A colposcope is a microscope that is inserted through the vagina. The colposcope allows the doctor to inspect the cervix. If necessary, a tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken during the colposcopy. The tissue is taken for further testing for cancer or abnormal cervical cells.
Folliculogram
A folliculogram is part of an infertility assessment and pregnancy planning. Using a transvaginal ultrasound, our doctors can determine the size and number of follicles a woman has in each ovary. Typically, each month, one follicle releases an egg during ovulation. With age, the number of follicles a woman has decreases. A folliculogram may also be used to help diagnose polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
Diagnostic Laparoscopy
A diagnostic gynecologic laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a tiny video camera (laparoscope) inserted through a tube to view the female reproductive organs, including the fallopian tubes, ovaries and uterus. A laparoscopy may be used to identify abnormalities and diagnose conditions such as ovarian disease, cysts, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, and cancer. It may also be used during complex operations.