Did you receive a positive pregnancy test result? Did you know that this isn’t enough to confirm a pregnancy? You also need an ultrasound.
Ultrasound is a simple scan that confirms your pregnancy and gives you the essential information you need to know before making a pregnancy decision.
How Pregnancy Ultrasound Works
An ultrasound, also known as a sonogram, uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. During pregnancy, a transducer (a small device that emits sound waves) is placed on your abdomen or inserted into the vagina. The sound waves bounce off the uterus and pregnancy, and a computer processes these echoes to create a visual image. This image can be seen on a monitor, allowing healthcare providers to assess the pregnancy’s growth and development.
Types of Pregnancy Ultrasounds
There are two types of ultrasound used during pregnancy:
Abdominal Ultrasound
This is the most common type of ultrasound. The technician moves the transducer over the abdomen after applying a special gel that helps transmit the sound waves. It’s used later in pregnancy.
Transvaginal Ultrasound
A transvaginal ultrasound involves inserting the transducer into the vagina. It is often used in early pregnancy to get a clearer view of the developing pregnancy. This type is beneficial for detecting early pregnancy complications, such as ectopic pregnancies, or confirming a viable pregnancy.
Why You Need a Pregnancy Ultrasound
Before you make any pregnancy decision, getting an ultrasound is essential.
An ultrasound will tell you the following details about your pregnancy:
Viability
An early ultrasound can confirm that you’re, in fact, pregnant (viability) by checking for signs of life, like a heartbeat. This is essential since it’s possible to have miscarried but still receive a positive pregnancy test result.
Location
Most pregnancies grow inside the uterus. However, sometimes a pregnancy develops outside the uterus. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy, and it’s a life-threatening emergency that requires prompt treatment.
Gestational Age
Certain options, like medical abortion, are dictated by how far along you are.
Where Can You Get a Free, Limited Ultrasound?
We care about your health and well-being, which is why we offer free, limited pregnancy ultrasounds. You deserve to have the answers you need to move forward safely.
Contact us today to schedule your confidential appointment.