One of the main purposes of an obstetrical ultrasound is to confirm that you are in fact pregnant. They can be performed at any time during your pregnancy, but the earliest that an embryo is usually visible with a heartbeat is at about six weeks gestation.
During the first trimester of pregnancy (under 14 weeks), your doctor will often request an early obstetrical ultrasound, sometimes called a dating ultrasound. It’s best performed at, or after, seven weeks and will confirm whether you are pregnant, as well as the number of babies you’re expecting.
To estimate the gestational age of your baby and thus your due date, the sonographer will measure your baby from top to bottom, recording the crown-rump-length (CRL). At seven weeks your baby is usually about the size of a peanut and measures around 10 mm long. During your exam, your baby’s well-being will also be assessed by seeing and documenting your baby’s heartbeat. Your uterus and surrounding organs will also be examined.
In your first trimester your doctor may also request a nuchal translucency ultrasound to help determine your baby’s risk of having one of several genetic conditions. During this exam, your sonographer will take a specific measurement of the skin thickness at the back of the neck, and it’s performed between 12 and 13 weeks.
During your second trimester, at 18 to 20 weeks pregnant, your doctor will request a 40-minute detailed obstetrical ultrasound. Sometimes called an anatomic ultrasound, this exam involves your sonographer taking many measurements of your baby from head-to-toe to determine how well your baby is growing. He or she will capture images to view the development of your baby’s brain, face, heart, spine, chest, major organs, arms, legs, feet, and hands.
Your sonographer will also examine the position of your placenta, the vessels in the umbilical cord, the amount of amniotic fluid, and your cervix, uterus, ovaries, and bladder for abnormalities. It’s also during this exam when the gender of your baby may first be visible – if the baby is in a good position.
Throughout the rest of your pregnancy you may have one or more follow-up ultrasounds, called a biophysical profile and growth ultrasound. The purpose of these exams is to monitor your baby’s growth and well-being. Your baby’s heart rate, breathing, movements, muscle tone, and amniotic fluid will be assessed, as well as fetal size. Sometimes babies grow bigger or smaller than expected, so physicians may request ultrasounds to help ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Ultrasound imaging is noninvasive and doesn’t use radiation. It has been used to evaluate pregnancy for four decades and there has been no evidence of harm to the patient, embryo, or fetus. However, it should only be performed when medically necessary.
Ultrasound imaging provides a clear picture of the uterus and provides much information about your pregnancy. It may be temporarily uncomfortable, but shouldn’t be painful. And while they can offer reassurance about your baby’s health, we do understand that they can also cause anxiety.
Most pregnancies have a gestation period of 40 weeks, which means you could have four or more ultrasounds during that time. These exams help your doctor monitor the health of you and your baby and inform care decisions.
Once your doctor has identified the need for an ultrasound, your doctor’s office may book an appointment for you, or provide you with a number to call to book your appointment. You will also be given a requisition form and preparation instructions for your exam.
For early, nuchal translucency, and detailed obstetrical ultrasounds, you will need to arrive for your exam with a full bladder. A full bladder helps the sonographer to see your cervix and moves the uterus up so we are better able to see your baby.
Once in the exam room you may be asked to change into a gown and then be positioned by one of our compassionate and experienced sonographers. A warm, unscented, hypo-allergenic ultrasound gel will be applied to your abdomen, and your sonographer will move the transducer around the front and side of your abdomen to gather images. You may experience mild pressure while the sonographer takes the images.
Obstetrical ultrasounds generally take between 25 and 40 minutes, but this may vary depending on how much your baby moves and its position. Your sonographer will do her or his best to ensure your comfort while also acquiring accurate measurements and the best possible images for you and your doctor.
Measuring your baby during any obstetrical ultrasound can be challenging and requires concentration, so your sonographer will usually show you images of your baby towards the end of your exam. We can also save images of your baby on a complimentary USB, to share with family and friends. You would need to speak with one of our clinic receptionists for more details.
Mayfair Diagnostics has 13 locations across Calgary which provide ultrasound services, as well as one in Cochrane and one in Regina. For more information about our clinic locations and services, please visit our clinic location pages, or you can drop by the nearest clinic.
REFERENCES
Mayo Clinic Staff (2021) “Nonstress test.” www.mayoclinic.org. Accessed September 1, 2022.
Radiological Society of North America (2021) “Obstetric Ultrasound.” www.radiologyinfo.org. Accessed September 1, 2022.
Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (2009) “Content of a Complete Routine Second Trimester Obstetrical Ultrasound Examination and Report.” Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada. Mar. 31(3): 272-75.
Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (2022) “Routine ultrasound.” www.pregnancyinfo.ca. Accessed September 1, 2022.
Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.
Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.
Diagnostic Imaging Assistants (DIAs) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.
Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.
Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.
Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.
Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care. They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.
We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:
Our core values shape the way we work with patients, partners, and fellow employees. And, more than anything else, they’re what set Mayfair apart. In everything we do, this is what we strive for:
EXCELLENCE
We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.
CURIOSITY
We innovate in everything, from services to processes. We believe meaningful change and effective problem solving come only by looking at challenges and opportunities from new angles and by exercising our creativity and curiosity.
PASSION
We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.
COLLABORATION
Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.
SERVICE
We take pride in delivering exceptional service every day. We listen to every request with an open mind, always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond to create memorable, personalized experiences. We take responsibility to answer our referrers’ and patients’ requests and respect their time by always responding with a sense of urgency.
Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.
Operating clinics in Calgary and surrounding areas, Regina, and Saskatoon, our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff collaborate seamlessly to deliver high quality patient care. Working here is more than just a job; it’s a strong step towards your future.
OUR TEAMS
We are a dedicated group of professionals who combine skill with compassion to deliver attentive care to our patients. As a reliable partner in their health care journey, we provide high-quality imaging that assists patients, physicians, and other providers in making informed health decisions. Our work goes beyond imaging; it’s about fostering relationships and positively impacting everyone we serve.
OUR VISION
We envision a world where every person has clarity about their health. We innovate and welcome change, promoting leadership and creativity through safe risk-taking. We share best practices, earn peer recognition for our work, and engage top talent to reach our goals.
We strive to be thought leaders and encourage creativity by providing a safe place for calculated risk taking.
We share best practices across our operations and are recognized by our peers for our work. We engage the best to help propel us forward in achieving our goals.
