If you are pregnant and want to learn the sex of your child an ultrasound or sonogram can assist you in your quest. An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to see pictures of your baby and to perform an examination on your fetus.

The Procedure

During the procedure, you lie on your back on an examination table and a small amount of warm gel will be applied to your skin. The gel helps to prevent any air pockets or bubbles from forming between you and a device call the transducer. A technician or your doctor will move the transducer over your pregnant belly. The transducer will send out sound waves that will bounce off the tissues or fetus inside your abdomen. The device will also capture the waves that bounce back. Images are created from these sound waves which is where you can see your baby and even have pictures printed and the entire sonogram can be recorded for you as well.

This is a painless procedure, but some women have complained that is uncomfortable especially if they are required to have a full bladder. The entire exam can take anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes.

Risks

An ultrasound is a safe procedure that utilizes low-power sound waves while higher-power sound waves can be used for treatment to heat and destroy some forms of tissue or tumors.
While the sex of your baby may be determined during an ultrasound procedure, there is no guarantee that it is accurate. Mistakes are made and what a technician or physician thought was a penis was actually a finger. So don't paint your baby's room blue or pink until after delivery. Be 100% sure of the sex of your baby before you make plans and major decisions.