The Seasoned Sonographer

Umbilical Artery Doppler & FGR: Understanding Placental Physiology

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Wed, 1 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode we discuss:

Definition of FGR (EFW <10% or AC <10%)
Early asymmetric FGR and the significance of abdominal circumference
Causes of FGR
Fetal circulation and placental resistance
Proper umbilical artery Doppler technique
S/D ratio, PI, RI
Absent and reversed end-diastolic flow
ACOG-aligned monitoring and delivery principles
When sonographers should add UA Dopplers
Why UA Dopplers are clinically valid after 24 weeks gestation

Referenced guidance:
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Practice Bulletin on Fetal Growth Restriction

For educational purposes only. Clinical management should follow current ACOG guidance and physician direction.

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 lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Pain Management During Gynecologic Procedures: It's Time To Do Better

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Sun, 1 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Pain during gynecologic procedures has long been minimized — but it doesn’t have to be that way.

In this episode of The Seasoned Sonographer, Lynn Flamm, RDMS, talks with OB/Gyn physician Dr. Kenzie Glassburn about modern approaches to pain management during in-office gynecologic procedures. Together, they explore how ultrasound guidance, cervical blocks, local anesthesia, and trauma-informed care can dramatically improve the patient experience.

We discuss:

Common gynecologic procedures performed under ultrasound

Which procedures benefit most from pain management

Why women’s pain has historically been dismissed

How ultrasound plays a key role in safer, more comfortable care

What needs to change — culturally and clinically

Because being a woman should never mean “just tolerate it.”

Copyright © 2026 Sono Techniques Academy, LLC. All rights reserved.
No portion of this podcast episode may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from Sono Techniques Academy, LLC.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Ultrasound Then vs Now: The Stories, Standards, and Lessons That Shaped OB/Gyn

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Sun, 1 Feb 2026 14:54:09 +0000

What you’ll hear in this episode:

What OB/Gyn ultrasound looked like when Dr. Bishop began practicing
The early workflow: documentation then vs now
How clinical decisions were made before today’s detailed imaging
How the physician–sonographer relationship evolved
The moment ultrasound became protocol-based
How AIUM standards increased specificity and consistency:
- required documentation elements
- standardized biometric measurements
- placenta, fluid, cervix expectations
- anatomy requirements becoming more detailed and structured
- heart expectations expanding beyond 4-chamber
Doppler use then vs now
Leadership perspective: quality standards as a Medical Director
Real-life lessons from 30+ years in women’s healthcare
Where he is today, practicing in a modern group practice

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Beyond the Four Chambers: Understanding the Depth of Fetal Echocardiography with Dr. Caroline Lee

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Thu, 1 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

This episode covers:

When and why a fetal echocardiogram is indicated

What makes a fetal echo different from the standard anatomy scan heart views

The additional ultrasound views included in a comprehensive fetal echo

The role of Doppler and M-mode for assessing cardiac function and rhythm

Common technical challenges and optimization tips

How to counsel families when cardiac abnormalities are detected

Collaboration between sonographers, MFMs, and pediatric cardiologists

🎧 A must-listen episode for anyone passionate about prenatal imaging, fetal heart anatomy, and compassionate patient care.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Bridging Cultures in OB/Gyn Care: Serving Houston’s Hispanic Community with Dr. Jocelyn Peters

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Mon, 1 Dec 2025 12:17:14 +0000

Guest: Dr. Jocelyn Peters, OB/Gyn, Houston, TX

Host: Lynn Flamm, RDMS, founder of Sono Techniques Academy and host of The Seasoned Sonographer

Topics discussed:

Cultural competence in OB/Gyn practice

The value of bilingual care for Hispanic and Spanish-speaking patients

Regional trends in women’s health and ultrasound access

How ultrasound supports trust and understanding in prenatal care

Empowering women through communication and education

Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube
Follow: @TheSeasonedSonographer | @SonoTechniquesAcademy

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Millimeters Matter: Cervical Length, Technique, and the Clinical Impact

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Tue, 4 Nov 2025 00:11:37 +0000

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.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

The Heartbeat of Women’s Health: Celebrating OB/GYN Sonographers (Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month Special)

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this special Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month episode of The Seasoned Sonographer™, host Lynn Flamm, RDMS, reflects on 33 years in ultrasound and the incredible influence OB/GYN sonographers have on women’s healthcare.

This episode explores:

💓 The importance of OB/GYN sonographers in patient care and diagnosis.

⚙️ The challenges and emotional resilience of the profession.

📖 A personal story that captures the heart of ultrasound.

🎤 An interview with a fellow Seasoned Sonographer, who shares her journey and what this awareness month means to her.

🌟 A “Did You Know” spotlight on ultrasound’s evolution and safety.

🤝 The reward of mentorship and lifelong learning in our field.

Whether you’re a student, a practicing sonographer, or a provider who values imaging excellence, this episode will remind you why our work matters so deeply.

© 2025 Sono Techniques Academy. All rights reserved.
Produced by Sono Techniques Academy
Learn more at www.sonotechniquesacademy.com

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Uncovering AUB: From Ultrasound to Exam Room

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Wed, 1 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Topics covered in this episode:

Definition of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB) and why it matters

FIGO’s PALM-COEIN classification system (structural vs non-structural causes)

Sonographic evaluation of the endometrium: thickness, echotexture, and Doppler findings

Key ultrasound patterns of polyps, fibroids, adenomyosis, and hyperplasia

Postmenopausal bleeding and when endometrial thickness is concerning

How providers use ultrasound reports to guide treatment and biopsy decisions

Communication tips: explaining findings to patients without creating fear

Collaboration between sonographers and providers for best patient outcomes

Guest Interview Highlights:

Logan Colvis, PA shares real-world cases, diagnostic challenges, and the role ultrasound plays in shaping management decisions for women with AUB.

Takeaway Pearls:

Always measure and document endometrial thickness in the sagittal plane

Endometrial appearance must be interpreted in the context of age, cycle, and symptoms

Structural causes (polyps, fibroids, adenomyosis) have distinct ultrasound patterns

Clear sonographer reporting = better, faster, and safer patient care

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Inside the Womb: Understanding Biophysical Profiles with Dr. Torrez

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Mon, 1 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

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.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Late Scans, Big Decisions: Third Trimester Ultrasound + a Midwife’s Insight

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Fri, 1 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0000

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.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Trailer: Welcome to The Seasoned Sonographer!

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Wed, 4 Jun 2025 22:23:45 +0000

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.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Scanning with Heart: A Deep Dive into Fetal Cardiac Evaluation

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Fri, 23 May 2025 21:19:48 +0000

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.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Midwifery Meets Imaging: The Role of the Second Trimester Ultrasound

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Fri, 23 May 2025 20:56:15 +0000

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.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Seeing More Than Just Baby: The 2nd Trimester Anatomy Screen

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Fri, 23 May 2025 16:37:49 +0000

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.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Mastering the First Trimester Ultrasound

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Fri, 23 May 2025 16:37:09 +0000

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.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.

Introduction Episode to The Seasoned Sonographer

lynn@sonotechniquesacademy.com (Lynn Flamm) — Fri, 23 May 2025 15:54:16 +0000

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.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast and any accompanying materials is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, the content is provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind.