In this episode of The Seasoned Sonographer, Lynn Flamm, RDMS, sits down with OB/GYN physician Dr. Torrez to unpack the Biophysical Profile (BPP) — one of the most important tools in obstetric ultrasound for assessing fetal well-being. Together, they review the five components of the BPP, how scores are interpreted, and what they reveal about oxygenation and neurologic function in the fetus.

The conversation highlights the critical role of amniotic fluid, including how oligohydramnios and polyhydramnios can change management even when other findings appear normal. Dr. Torrez also explains when and why Umbilical Artery Dopplers are added to the BPP to evaluate placental insufficiency and guide high-risk care.

Whether you’re a student, a practicing sonographer, or a provider, this episode will give you practical insight into how BPPs influence decision-making, when to escalate care, and what sonographers can do to optimize reporting and communication for the best patient outcomes.

© 2025 The Seasoned Sonographer podcast by Lynn Flamm. All rights reserved.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or even topics you’d like me to cover—connect with me  @SonoTechniquesAcademy on Facebook facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574057043515  and Instagram instagram.com/sonotechniquesacademy  or send me an email at [email protected].

Always seek the guidance of your physician, qualified healthcare provider, or credentialed ultrasound professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, scan interpretation, or clinical decision-making.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations or employers. The host assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any outcomes related to its use.

Listeners and participants are solely responsible for how they use the information shared in this podcast or training program.

Topics Covered in This Episode:

When and why a third trimester ultrasound is ordered

Biometry: HC, BPD, AC, FL & how they’re used to estimate fetal weight (EFW)

Interpreting growth percentiles: SGA, FGR, macrosomia

Assessing fetal lie and presentation: cephalic vs. breech

AFI vs. SDP/MVP: how to evaluate amniotic fluid and what’s normal

Real-world scanning challenges: maternal habitus, fetal position, limited views

What to document when scans are technically limited

When to add a Biophysical Profile and what it tells us about fetal well-being

Special Guest: Jessica Reichert, CNM
Jessica shares how third trimester ultrasounds inform clinical judgment and patient care, especially in high-risk or borderline cases. She also discusses collaboration with sonographers and shares a powerful case that underscores why these scans matter.

Key Takeaway:
Ultrasound is a real-time, sonographer-dependent exam — and what we document (or can’t document) in the third trimester can significantly shape the final stages of pregnancy care.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or even topics you’d like me to cover—connect with me  @SonoTechniquesAcademy on Facebook facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574057043515  and Instagram instagram.com/sonotechniquesacademy  or send me an email at [email protected].

Always seek the guidance of your physician, qualified healthcare provider, or credentialed ultrasound professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, scan interpretation, or clinical decision-making.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations or employers. The host assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any outcomes related to its use.

Listeners and participants are solely responsible for how they use the information shared in this podcast or training program.

In this short trailer episode, get to know the heart and mission behind The Seasoned Sonographer. We’re building a space where sonographers at every level can learn, grow, and thrive through:

🌀 Case-based discussions
🌀 Image optimization tips
🌀 Real-world scan scenarios
🌀 Troubleshooting strategies
🌀 Mentorship and community support

👩‍⚕️ Your Host:
With 32+ years in OB/GYN ultrasound and a passion for training the next generation, your host brings clarity, confidence, and community to each episode.

🎧 What’s Coming Up:

How to consistently nail the fetal heart views

Tips when anatomy scans don’t go as planned

Optimizing your image when baby isn’t cooperating

📲 Subscribe now so you never miss an episode — and get ready to level up your scanning skills.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or even topics you’d like me to cover—connect with me  @SonoTechniquesAcademy on Facebook facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574057043515  and Instagram instagram.com/sonotechniquesacademy  or send me an email at [email protected].

Always seek the guidance of your physician, qualified healthcare provider, or credentialed ultrasound professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, scan interpretation, or clinical decision-making.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations or employers. The host assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any outcomes related to its use.

Listeners and participants are solely responsible for how they use the information shared in this podcast or training program.

In this episode, we dive deep into the clinical importance of cervical length measurement by transvaginal ultrasound—a key screening tool for identifying risk of preterm birth. We cover:

The criteria for when and why to measure cervical length

A step-by-step technical breakdown for accurate transvaginal imaging

The significance of funneling, with a focus on V-shaped vs. U-shaped funneling and what each implies about cervical integrity

The use of Valsalva maneuver and fundal pressure to assess dynamic cervical changes

High-risk factors including history of LEEP, twins, and previous preterm delivery

Why precision in sonographer technique matters and how small differences in measurement can shape major clinical decisions

We also introduce Dr. Torrez, a board-certified OB/Gyn, who joins us to discuss a recent patient case from our own office. In this powerful clinical vignette, we explore how a short cervix—measured during a routine scan—led to timely intervention that ultimately changed the trajectory of care.

Whether you’re a sonographer, provider, or educator, this episode offers practical insight, clinical pearls, and a reminder that millimeters truly do matter.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or even topics you’d like me to cover—connect with me  @SonoTechniquesAcademy on Facebook facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574057043515  and Instagram instagram.com/sonotechniquesacademy  or send me an email at [email protected].

Always seek the guidance of your physician, qualified healthcare provider, or credentialed ultrasound professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, scan interpretation, or clinical decision-making.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations or employers. The host assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any outcomes related to its use.

Listeners and participants are solely responsible for how they use the information shared in this podcast or training program.

In this episode, we’re focusing on one of the most detail-driven parts of the anatomy survey: the fetal heart. Whether you’re just learning or teaching others, getting consistent, high-quality cardiac views can be one of the biggest challenges in OB ultrasound.

Join your host — a sonographer with over 32 years of OB/GYN experience — as she walks through practical strategies to boost your confidence and improve your cardiac imaging technique every time you scan.

💡 In This Episode, You'll Learn:

Why the fetal heart is more than just the 4-chamber view

How to approach outflow tract and 3-vessel views with clarity

Tips for adjusting when fetal position isn’t ideal

How to troubleshoot maternal habitus

🎯 Who This Episode Is For:
Students, new grads, instructors, providers and any sonographer looking to refine their fetal heart imaging skills.

📌 Pro Tip from the Episode:
“Start with the 4-chamber, but don’t stop there — tracing the flow helps you understand the structure.”

📲 Subscribe & Share:
If this episode helped you, consider sharing it with your fellow sonographers or ultrasound students. Follow the show for more in-depth episodes that strengthen your scan, one structure at a time.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or even topics you’d like me to cover—connect with me  @SonoTechniquesAcademy on Facebook facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574057043515  and Instagram instagram.com/sonotechniquesacademy  or send me an email at [email protected].

Always seek the guidance of your physician, qualified healthcare provider, or credentialed ultrasound professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, scan interpretation, or clinical decision-making.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations or employers. The host assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any outcomes related to its use.

Listeners and participants are solely responsible for how they use the information shared in this podcast or training program.

In this episode of The Seasoned Sonographer, I’m joined by a Certified Nurse Midwife for an in-depth conversation about the second-trimester anatomy scan and its significant role in midwifery care. Together, we discuss how this essential ultrasound—typically performed around 18 to 22 weeks—guides clinical decisions, influences patient counseling, and helps midwives provide informed, personalized care.

Our guest shares how anatomy scan findings can shift the course of pregnancy management, from identifying potential complications to coordinating referrals and planning birth options. We also touch on the collaborative relationship between midwives and sonographers, and how detailed, high-quality imaging supports the midwifery model of care.

Whether you're a practicing sonographer, a midwife, or a student in training, this episode offers a powerful look at how this pivotal scan shapes practice, supports patients, and highlights the impact of ultrasound in everyday clinical care.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or even topics you’d like me to cover—connect with me  @SonoTechniquesAcademy on Facebook facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574057043515  and Instagram instagram.com/sonotechniquesacademy  or send me an email at [email protected].

Always seek the guidance of your physician, qualified healthcare provider, or credentialed ultrasound professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, scan interpretation, or clinical decision-making.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations or employers. The host assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any outcomes related to its use.

Listeners and participants are solely responsible for how they use the information shared in this podcast or training program.

In this solo episode of The Seasoned Sonographer, I’m diving into one of the most impactful scans in obstetrics: the second-trimester anatomy ultrasound. Often performed between 18 and 22 weeks, this detailed evaluation of fetal anatomy is not only a milestone for expectant parents—but a critical tool for the providers guiding their care.

We’ll explore how the anatomy scan plays a key role in shaping clinical practice and potential maternal-fetal medicine referral. I’ll walk you through what sonographers are looking for during this scan, how to obtain those images, how those findings are interpreted, and why clear, comprehensive imaging makes such a difference for providers.

This episode is all about bridging the gap between the scan room and the care plan—highlighting images based on AIUM guidelines and technique in obtaining them.  Emphasizing the real impact sonographers make, one anatomy screen at a time.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or even topics you’d like me to cover—connect with me  @SonoTechniquesAcademy on Facebook facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574057043515  and Instagram instagram.com/sonotechniquesacademy  or send me an email at [email protected].

Always seek the guidance of your physician, qualified healthcare provider, or credentialed ultrasound professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, scan interpretation, or clinical decision-making.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations or employers. The host assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any outcomes related to its use.

Listeners and participants are solely responsible for how they use the information shared in this podcast or training program.

In this episode of The Seasoned Sonographer, we’re diving deep into the foundational and fascinating world of first trimester ultrasound. Whether you’re confirming an intrauterine pregnancy or navigating a challenging early scan, this episode provides practical insights for sonographers and providers alike.
 

Join me as I break down the AIUM guidelines for what should be included in every first trimester scan—from evaluating gestational sacs and yolk sacs to measuring CRL and documenting cardiac activity. We’ll also walk through key image optimization techniques, including how to properly adjust depth, gain, and focus for clearer, more diagnostic images using both transabdominal and transvaginal approaches.
 

We’ll explore common early pregnancy pathology, like subchorionic hemorrhages, embryonic demise, molar pregnancy, and ectopic gestations, and I’ll share clinical tips for spotting red flags before they become emergencies. I also talk through some of the challenges we face in the field, such as patient body habitus, scan limitations, and how to sensitively manage tough conversations with patients when pregnancies are nonviable.
 

Whether you’re a new grad, a seasoned tech, or a provider looking to understand the sonographer’s perspective, this episode will help you scan smarter and with more confidence.

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or even topics you’d like me to cover—connect with me  @SonoTechniquesAcademy on Facebook facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574057043515  and Instagram instagram.com/sonotechniquesacademy  or send me an email at [email protected].

Always seek the guidance of your physician, qualified healthcare provider, or credentialed ultrasound professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, scan interpretation, or clinical decision-making.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations or employers. The host assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any outcomes related to its use.

Listeners and participants are solely responsible for how they use the information shared in this podcast or training program.

Welcome to The Seasoned Sonographer, the podcast where experience meets education in the world of OB/Gyn ultrasound. My name is Lynn Flamm, and I’ll be your host. I am a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer with over 32 years of experience. Most of that time has been primarily in OB/Gyn ultrasound.  

This podcast is for OB/Gyn sonographers, both new and seasoned. It’s also for ultrasound students who are looking for guidance as they navigate this field. And of course, it’s for the providers—physicians, nurse practitioners, PA’s and midwives—who use ultrasound as part of their practice to help them make impactful clinical decisions.

Through this podcast, I will share scanning techniques, tips, and case studies to help you sharpen your skills and optimize your scans.  

 I will release monthly episodes that will last about 15-30 minutes.  

 If you’re interested in improving your OB/Gyn ultrasound skills and learning more about the field, make sure to subscribe to *The Seasoned Sonographer* on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and You Tube. 

I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, or even topics you’d like me to cover—connect with me  @SonoTechniquesAcademy on Facebook facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574057043515  and Instagram instagram.com/sonotechniquesacademy  or send me an email at [email protected].

Always seek the guidance of your physician, qualified healthcare provider, or credentialed ultrasound professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, scan interpretation, or clinical decision-making.

The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations or employers. The host assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any outcomes related to its use.

Listeners and participants are solely responsible for how they use the information shared in this podcast or training program.