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What's the difference between an ultrasound and a sonogram?

The terms ultrasound and sonogram are frequently used interchangeably, but they are technically not the same

“I am pregnant, and I know one of the best ways to confirm my pregnancy is with an ultrasound. However, I’ve also heard the term “sonogram.” So, which one am I getting, an ultrasound or a sonogram? Are they the same thing?”

Yes and no. Let me tell you the difference.

The word “ultrasound” refers to sound waves used during an ultrasound exam (a medical imaging test). Even though the waves are higher than what our human ears can hear, they are able to create images of our body tissues.

An ultrasound examination involves using an ultrasound machine. The ultrasound machine has two parts that the nurse may need to use to determine and confirm for you the viability of the pregnancy.

First, she starts on your abdomen and uses a tool called a transducer.

Then, if necessary, the RN may need to perform an ultrasound through the vagina to get a clear image, especially in early pregnancy. For this type of ultrasound, she will use a transvaginal transducer.

When a woman who has never had a transvaginal ultrasound hears that she needs one, she may get a bit nervous – but just know, the anticipation of it is much worse than the actual procedure.

If you think of it, it is like going to the museum, and you see a piece of artwork that is far away; you can see the work, but if you get closer, you get a better picture of what the details of that piece of work look like.

Both (abdominal and vaginal ultrasounds) are important in determining if the pregnancy is viable, but it will be determined by the nurse if both are necessary to confirm:

if the pregnancy is in the correct location,
the size/age of the pregnancy,
and viability, by measuring cardiac activity.

A sonogram is the picture the ultrasound machine creates.

A sonogram is the image the nurse sees on her screen. You may also see these images on a TV screen as she is performing the ultrasound.

If the nurse sees what she expects to see, you may be able to get printed pictures of the sonogram. With your permission and consent, she may be able to send you those images as well.

Those images are a part of you because the sonogram is what is going on inside your body. They belong to you. All the images are then sent to the medical doctor, who will review and report what was confirmed through the ultrasound.

Ultrasound and sonograms are both vital to determining the viability of a pregnancy.

Yet, they are interchangeable as far as terms.

If you think about the ultrasound, it is the actual procedure where the nurse uses the tool to confirm if the pregnancy is viable, in the correct place, and to measure how far along the pregnancy is – and the pictures that are seen are the sonogram.

Whether it is an ultrasound that uses sound waves to create images or a sonogram, which shows you a visual made by the ultrasound, you need them both to confirm your pregnancy before making any decisions.

Here at Alcove Health Women’s Clinic, we perform ultrasounds – and provide sonogram images – all at no cost to you.

Whether you are planning to carry the pregnancy to term, or abort the pregnancy, an ultrasound provides valuable health information for you as you are deciding your next steps.

Call or visit our appointment page today to request your free and confidential appointment with Alcove Health.