If you’ve recently found out you’re pregnant, getting an ultrasound is an essential next step. Whether your pregnancy was planned or unexpected, an ultrasound provides critical information about your health and your options moving forward.
“Read on to learn more about how pregnancy ultrasounds work—or contact Elevate Pregnancy and Family Resource Center for a free, private appointment in a safe, supportive environment to discuss more about ultrasounds.”
How a Pregnancy Ultrasound Works
A pregnancy ultrasound is a simple imaging procedure that uses sound waves to create pictures of the developing baby inside the uterus. A trained medical professional will apply a special gel to your abdomen and use a handheld device called a transducer to send sound waves into your body. These waves bounce off internal structures, producing an image on a screen that shows details about your pregnancy.
In early pregnancy, a transvaginal ultrasound may be recommended for a clearer image. This involves a small probe being inserted into the vagina to get a closer look at the developing pregnancy.
What You’ll Learn from an Ultrasound
An ultrasound provides key details about your pregnancy, including:
- Gestational age: Determines how far along you are and provides an estimated due date.
- Viability: Confirms if the pregnancy is progressing and detects a fetal heartbeat (meaning you haven’t miscarried).
- Pregnancy location: Ensures the pregnancy is in the uterus and not ectopic (outside the uterus), which is a serious medical emergency.
Why an Ultrasound Is Important
If you’re considering your pregnancy options, an ultrasound gives you the medical facts you need to make an informed decision. (For example, the abortion pill is only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is 10 weeks gestation or under.)
It helps rule out complications like ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, which both need medical intervention to ensure you don’t face complications.
Elevate Pregnancy and Family Resource Center Is Here for You
At Elevate Pregnancy and Family Resource Center, we provide a free and safe space to talk about your pregnancy. No matter what you’re facing, you don’t have to go through it alone. We offer pregnancy testing, education support, post-abortion support, and more.
Schedule your no-cost appointment today to get the clarity and support you need.