If you have recently learned you are pregnant, you may be wondering what an ultrasound is and whether you truly need one before deciding about your pregnancy.
No matter what option you are leaning toward, an ultrasound is one of the most important first steps you can take. It gives you accurate information about your pregnancy so you can move forward with confidence.
Keep reading to learn how ultrasounds work and the valuable details they will reveal about your pregnancy. You can also schedule a free pregnancy testing appointment with us to determine whether you qualify for an ultrasound.
What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a scan that uses high-frequency sound waves to create a picture of the inside of your uterus and pregnancy.
During the scan, a small device sends sound waves into the body, and those waves bounce back to form an image on a screen.
From that image, a trained medical professional can gather key details about your pregnancy.
What an Ultrasound Can Tell You
An ultrasound answers three important questions about your pregnancy.
Viability: First, an ultrasound confirms whether the pregnancy is viable by detecting a heartbeat.
Not every positive pregnancy test result in a growing pregnancy.
According to the Mayo Clinic, up to 20% of pregnancies can end in miscarriage, so knowing whether yours is progressing is essential before you consider any next step.
If you have miscarried, you may need follow-up care from a medical provider.
Gestational Age: Ultrasounds also measure the pregnancy to estimate how far along you are.
Trying to determine your pregnancy age by just using your last menstrual period can actually lead to a date that is off by weeks.
The gestational age of your pregnancy matters, especially if you are considering the abortion pill, since the FDA only approves its use through 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Taking it later can increase the risk of serious complications, so confirming the gestational age of the pregnancy with a scan is important.
Location: Finally, an ultrasound shows where the pregnancy has implanted.
Most pregnancies implant inside the uterus, but it is possible for a pregnancy to implant somewhere else, like an ovary or fallopian tube.
This health complication is known as an ectopic pregnancy, and it can become a medical emergency without prompt medical intervention.
We Are Here for You
At Palm Beach Women’s Clinic, we believe you deserve clear answers and compassionate care as you navigate your pregnancy.
Our team offers free, confidential services, including lab-quality pregnancy tests and limited obstetric ultrasounds, so you can get the information you need at no cost.
Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment and take the next step with confidence.
Palm Beach Women’s Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.