An ultrasound is your next step to pregnancy confirmation after receiving a positive pregnancy test result. A positive pregnancy test cannot tell you all you need to know to determine your next steps and make an informed pregnancy decision.
How Ultrasounds Work
Using high-frequency sound waves, an ultrasound produces an accurate image of your uterus. During an ultrasound exam, a gel-like substance will first be put on your belly. Then, a transducer device is able to pick up intrauterine sound waves and displays an image onto a screen for your viewing, if desired.
Do I Need An Ultrasound?
Ultrasounds offer valuable information about your health so you can stay safe as you make your pregnancy decision. If considering abortion, the FDA only recommends medical abortion for women through 10 weeks of pregnancy.
You’ll need to know specific details about your pregnancy before making any decision. An ultrasound confirms these three details:
1. The Viability of Your Pregnancy
The viability of your pregnancy has to do with the heartbeat of the pregnancy. Around 10-20% of known pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage, which can be revealed by ultrasound.
2. How Far Along You Are
Know how far along you are with an ultrasound. You can determine an estimated due date and when conception happened, so you know your pregnancy options. You’ll qualify for a medical abortion if your pregnancy is 10 weeks or less. Any pregnancy past 10 weeks will require a surgical abortion.
3. The Location of Your Pregnancy
Sometimes the embryo implants somewhere other than in the uterus. Though this is rare for women, there is still a chance it could happen. An ectopic pregnancy is when the pregnancy grows outside of the uterus and comes with serious health risks. Medical attention is needed right away.
Ultrasound Referrals
Get clarity about your pregnancy details and options with a no-cost pregnant test at our center. If you receive a positive result, we can offer an ultrasound referral for you to move forward.