If you’ve just taken a pregnancy test and it came back positive, an ultrasound is an essential next step It provides vital information about your pregnancy and helps you confidently move forward.
We’ll review how an ultrasound works and why getting one is crucial for your health and wellness.
What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a simple way to learn more about your pregnancy. It uses sound waves to create images of what’s happening inside your body. These sound waves bounce off structures, like your uterus and baby, and form a picture on a screen.
Most people have two ultrasounds during pregnancy, but you may have more if your provider feels it’s medically necessary.
What Happens During an Ultrasound?
Depending on how far along your pregnancy is, the scan may be done in one of two ways:
- Abdominal Ultrasound: A gel is applied to your abdomen, and a device called a transducer is moved across your skin. This method is common as pregnancy progresses.
- Transvaginal Ultrasound: If the pregnancy is earlier, the transducer is gently inserted into the vagina for a closer, more detailed image.
Both methods are straightforward and designed to give you and the sonographer the best possible look at your pregnancy.
Why Is an Ultrasound Important?
An ultrasound provides key information about your pregnancy, including:
- Location: To confirm the pregnancy is in the uterus. Rarely, a pregnancy may implant outside the uterus (ectopic pregnancy), which requires immediate medical attention.
- Gestational Age: To determine how far along you are. This information is important for understanding your options.
- Viability: To check if the pregnancy is developing as it should. Twenty-six percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage, which may need monitoring and care.
Knowing these details is essential no matter what decision you’re considering for your pregnancy.
We’re Here to Support You
At Assure Pregnancy Clinic, we offer free ultrasounds to help you learn more about your pregnancy. A trained sonographer will perform your ultrasound after your positive pregnancy test.
Our caring team is also here to answer your questions and provide clarity in a safe, supportive environment.
If you’re ready to take the next step, schedule your free appointment today.