Did you receive a positive pregnancy test result? This is just the first step in confirming your pregnancy—ultrasound is the next essential step.
An ultrasound is a simple, low-risk scan that uses sound waves to create images of your internal structures. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, ultrasounds are considered safe during pregnancy.
The ultrasound process involves a transducer, a wand-like device that transmits sound waves through your body. During pregnancy, ultrasounds are used to examine the uterus and monitor the pregnancy.
There are two types of ultrasound used during pregnancy:
Transvaginal Ultrasound: This type is used early in pregnancy and involves gently inserting the transducer into the vagina to obtain a clearer image.
Abdominal Ultrasound: This noninvasive method is used later in pregnancy, with the transducer moved along the abdomen to produce images.
Ultrasound provides another crucial step confirming your pregnancy.
What Can Ultrasound Reveal About My Pregnancy?
Verification of Pregnancy: An ultrasound confirms your pregnancy because a positive test result can sometimes occur after a miscarriage due to lingering hCG levels (approximately 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage).
Gestational Age: Ultrasound determines how far along you are, which is critical for understanding your pregnancy options. For example, medical abortion is FDA-approved only for pregnancies under 10 weeks.
Pregnancy Location: Ultrasound identifies the location of your pregnancy, ensuring it is not ectopic (a pregnancy outside the uterus). An ectopic pregnancy is life-threatening and requires immediate medical care.
What To Expect During an Ultrasound Exam
During your appointment, the ultrasound technician will ensure your comfort before beginning the scan. For abdominal ultrasounds, a jelly-like substance is applied to your abdomen to create clearer images. If you’re having a transvaginal ultrasound, the transducer will be gently inserted into the vagina.
The technician will look for the pregnancy, take measurements, and show you the pregnancy on the ultrasound screen. If you’d like, you can also take home pictures of your pregnancy as a keepsake.
Next Steps
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At 1st Way Life Center, we’re here to support you. No matter what option you’re considering, getting an ultrasound is a crucial step to ensure your health and safety moving forward.
Contact us today, anytime of the day or night/24/7 to schedule your no-cost, confidential pregnancy testing appointment. If your test results are positive, to help you take the next step with clarity and care, we'll provide you with a free ultrasound, or a referral for one if the center does not have the capability.