Ultrasound Scan in Grand Rapids, Michigan

An ultrasound scan is a common, safe imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of the inside of your body. In Grand Rapids, MI, ultrasound exams are widely available at major healthcare systems such as Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, and Mercy Health.

Doctors in Grand Rapids use ultrasound (also called a sonogram, and an echocardiogram when used for the heart) to examine:

  • A developing fetus during pregnancy
  • Abdominal and pelvic organs
  • Muscles, tendons, and joints
  • The heart and blood vessels

Because Michigan residents experience seasonal health issues—from winter-related injuries to circulation concerns—ultrasound is an important, non-invasive tool for diagnosing and monitoring many conditions locally.

How an Ultrasound Scan Works

During an ultrasound scan:

  • A small, handheld device called a probe (or transducer) sends high-frequency sound waves into your body.
  • These sound waves bounce off internal structures.
  • A computer converts the returning echoes into real-time images on a monitor.

The sound waves used in medical ultrasound are too high-pitched for the human ear to hear, which is why it’s called ultrasound. Most ultrasound scans in Grand Rapids are non-invasive, meaning the probe is moved over the skin on the outside of your body.

In some cases, a special probe is gently inserted into the body for clearer images of certain organs:

  • Transvaginal ultrasound – inserted into the vagina for some pelvic or early pregnancy exams
  • Transrectal ultrasound – inserted into the rectum for some prostate exams
  • Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) – inserted into the esophagus for detailed heart imaging

These specialized exams are also available at major Grand Rapids hospitals and imaging centers.

Common Uses of Ultrasound in Grand Rapids

Abdominal Ultrasound

Abdominal ultrasound may be used if you have:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Abnormal lumps or masses
  • Abnormal sounds on physical exam

Structures that may be examined include:

  • Gallbladder and bile ducts
  • Liver
  • Pancreas
  • Spleen
  • Kidneys
  • Major abdominal blood vessels (such as the aorta)

Because air blocks sound waves, organs filled with air (like the stomach and intestines) are harder to see clearly with ultrasound and may require other imaging tests.

Pelvic Ultrasound

Pelvic ultrasound is commonly used for women who have:

  • Pelvic pain
  • Abnormal or heavy periods
  • Fibroids
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Other conditions affecting the uterus, ovaries, or fallopian tubes

In Grand Rapids, pelvic ultrasound is often performed at hospital-based imaging centers and outpatient clinics associated with OB/GYN practices.

Pregnancy Ultrasound

Pregnancy ultrasound is a routine part of prenatal care in the United States and is standard in Grand Rapids. It is used to:

  • Confirm and date a pregnancy
  • Check the baby’s position
  • Monitor fetal growth and development
  • Screen for some birth defects (such as spina bifida)
  • Check the placenta and amniotic fluid

Local OB/GYN practices and hospital maternity centers in Grand Rapids use ultrasound regularly throughout pregnancy to help keep both mother and baby safe, especially important during icy winters when falls and injuries are more common.

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound

Musculoskeletal ultrasound can evaluate:

  • Shoulders, hips, elbows, and knees
  • Muscles, tendons, and ligaments
  • Sports injuries and overuse injuries

With an active population and winter sports like skiing and ice skating in West Michigan, musculoskeletal ultrasound is frequently used to assess sprains, strains, and joint problems.

Breast Ultrasound

Breast ultrasound may be recommended to:

  • Further evaluate an abnormality found on a mammogram
  • Examine a lump found during a breast exam
  • Help guide a breast biopsy

Grand Rapids imaging centers often combine mammography and ultrasound for comprehensive breast screening and diagnosis.

Eye Ultrasound

Eye (ocular) ultrasound can be used to:

  • Check the internal structures of the eye
  • Evaluate certain eye conditions when the inside of the eye cannot be seen clearly on exam

Doppler Ultrasound: Checking Blood Flow

A Doppler ultrasound is a special type of ultrasound that measures the speed and direction of blood flow. In Grand Rapids, Doppler studies are commonly used to evaluate:

  • Neck arteries (carotid arteries) for narrowing or plaque
  • Leg veins for blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
  • Circulation problems, which can be more common in colder climates like Michigan

Doppler ultrasound is especially helpful for patients with diabetes, high blood pressure, or vascular disease—conditions that are relatively common in West Michigan.

Preparing for an Ultrasound Scan in Grand Rapids

Preparation depends on the type of ultrasound you are having. Your doctor or the imaging department will give you specific instructions, but common preparations include:

  • Upper abdominal ultrasound

    • You may be asked not to eat or drink (except small sips of water) for several hours before the scan to improve image quality of the gallbladder, liver, and pancreas.

  • Pelvic ultrasound

    • You may be asked to arrive with a full bladder, which helps provide clearer images of the uterus and ovaries.

Always confirm your instructions when your appointment is scheduled. If you have questions, you can call the imaging department at your chosen Grand Rapids facility or check with your primary care provider.

What Happens During an Ultrasound Scan

Although each facility may have slightly different processes, most Grand Rapids ultrasound exams follow similar steps:

  1. Check-in

    • You’ll register at the imaging department at your hospital or clinic. Bring your insurance card and photo ID.

  2. Getting ready

    • You may be asked to change into a gown or loosen clothing around the area being examined.

  3. Positioning

    • You will lie on an examination table, usually on your back or side, depending on the scan.

  4. Gel application

    • The sonographer (ultrasound technologist) will place a warm, water-based gel on your skin.
    • The gel helps the probe make good contact and improves image quality.

  5. Scanning

    • The sonographer moves the handheld probe over your skin (or uses a special internal probe, if needed).
    • You may feel mild pressure, but it should not be painful.
    • Images appear instantly on a monitor as two-dimensional or sometimes three-dimensional pictures.

  6. Duration

    • Most ultrasound scans take about 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the type of exam.

Other Types of Ultrasound Procedures

Some ultrasound exams require slightly different steps:

  • Transvaginal ultrasound

    • A slender, covered probe is gently inserted into the vagina.
    • This can provide more detailed images of the uterus, ovaries, and early pregnancies than a standard pelvic scan.

  • Transrectal ultrasound

    • Used primarily for prostate evaluation in men.
    • A small probe is inserted into the rectum to obtain clear images of the prostate gland.

  • Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)

    • A probe is passed into the esophagus (under sedation) to get detailed images of the heart.
    • Usually done in a hospital setting, such as Corewell Health or Trinity Health Grand Rapids.

Your provider will explain the procedure and answer questions before any internal ultrasound exam.

After Your Ultrasound Scan

When the scan is finished:

  • The sonographer will give you paper towels or cloths to wipe off the gel.
  • You can get dressed and leave the imaging department.
  • You can usually return to your normal activities immediately—no recovery time is needed.

Getting Your Results

  • The ultrasound images are reviewed by a radiologist or specialist.
  • A report is sent to your referring doctor (for example, your primary care provider, OB/GYN, or specialist).
  • You’ll need a follow-up appointment or phone call to discuss the results and any next steps.

If your ultrasound was done at a Grand Rapids hospital or large clinic, results may also be available through your online patient portal.

Safety of Ultrasound Scans

Ultrasound scans:

  • Do not use ionizing radiation (unlike x-rays or CT scans)
  • Are considered very safe, including during pregnancy
  • Are generally painless and non-invasive

Because of this excellent safety profile, ultrasound is a first-line imaging test for many conditions in Grand Rapids and across Michigan.

What Happens If Something Is Found?

Treatment depends on what the ultrasound shows:

  • Fibroids (non-cancerous uterine growths)

    • May be monitored over time
    • Treated with medications
    • Surgically removed (myomectomy) if needed

  • Abdominal masses or cysts

    • May require further imaging (such as MRI or CT scan)
    • Sometimes need biopsy or surgery

  • Vascular issues (such as narrowed arteries or blood clots)

    • May be treated with medications, lifestyle changes, or procedures
    • Often managed by cardiologists or vascular specialists in Grand Rapids

Your doctor will explain your options and may refer you to a specialist within one of the local health systems.

Other Imaging Tests Used in Grand Rapids

Depending on your condition, your healthcare provider may recommend additional imaging tests:

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

    • Uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves
    • Creates detailed, three-dimensional images of organs, joints, and soft tissues
    • Commonly used for brain, spine, and joint problems

  • Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

    • Uses x-rays and computer technology
    • Produces detailed cross-sectional images of internal structures
    • Helpful for evaluating injuries, cancers, and internal bleeding

These imaging services are widely available at major Grand Rapids hospitals and outpatient imaging centers.

Where to Get an Ultrasound in Grand Rapids, MI

You can get an ultrasound scan at:

  • Your primary care provider’s office (if they have in-house imaging)
  • Hospital-based imaging departments, including:
    • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health)
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
    • Mercy Health
  • Independent medical imaging centers in the Grand Rapids area

For community health resources, you can also contact:

  • Kent County Health Department – for information on local clinics and prenatal services
  • Grand Rapids Public Health programs – for referrals and support, especially for uninsured or underinsured residents

If you’re unsure where to start, talk with your Grand Rapids primary care provider. They can help you choose the right imaging location based on your insurance, medical needs, and convenience.

When to Talk to a Doctor About an Ultrasound

Consider asking your Grand Rapids healthcare provider about an ultrasound if you have:

  • Unexplained abdominal or pelvic pain
  • A new lump or swelling
  • Changes in menstrual cycles or pelvic symptoms
  • Concerns about pregnancy or fertility
  • Leg swelling or pain that might suggest a blood clot
  • Sports or winter-related injuries that affect joints, muscles, or tendons

Early evaluation can help prevent complications—especially important in Michigan’s changing seasons, when slips, falls, and circulation issues can increase.

If you think you may need an ultrasound scan in Grand Rapids, MI, schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor or OB/GYN to discuss your symptoms, get a referral if needed, and choose the most appropriate local imaging center.