Why it's done

Ultrasound is used for many reasons, including to:

• View the uterus and ovaries during pregnancy and monitor the developing baby's health
• Diagnose gallbladder disease
• Evaluate blood flow
• Guide a needle for biopsy or tumor treatment
• Examine a breast lump
• Check your thyroid gland
• Detect genital and prostate problems
• Assess joint inflammation (synovitis)
• Evaluate metabolic bone disease