A positive pregnancy test can tell you that hCG is present, but there are still important details you cannot learn from a test alone. An ultrasound can provide a closer look at the pregnancy and help you understand how far along you may be (the gestational age), where the pregnancy is developing, and whether signs of development are visible.
If you have never had an ultrasound before, knowing what to expect can make the appointment feel much more straightforward. First Care Clinic provides free medical-grade pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy.
We are here to help you get the answers you need about your pregnancy in a compassionate and non-judgmental environment. Schedule your appointment at the clinic today.
What Happens During The Ultrasound
An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of structures inside the body. It does not use radiation.
During an early pregnancy ultrasound, the sonographer may use an ultrasound transducer over your abdomen. Depending on how early the pregnancy is and what can be seen, a transvaginal ultrasound may sometimes be needed to obtain clearer images.
The sonographer will take measurements and look at the uterus and surrounding structures. You will be able to see the images on a screen during the scan.
What an Ultrasound Shows You
An ultrasound can provide several additional details that may be important for protecting your health and influencing your pregnancy options.
How Far Along You Are
An ultrasound can help estimate gestational age, or how far along the pregnancy is. This can be especially helpful when you are unsure of the date of your last menstrual period or your cycles are irregular.
Where the Pregnancy Is Developing
An ultrasound can help show whether the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus. This is important because an ectopic pregnancy develops outside the uterus and requires medical attention.
An ectopic pregnancy can sometimes begin with symptoms that look like those of a typical early pregnancy. If you experience severe abdominal or pelvic pain, shoulder pain, dizziness, weakness, or fainting, seek urgent medical attention.
Whether Development Can Be Seen
Depending on how early the pregnancy is, an ultrasound may show structures associated with the developing pregnancy, and cardiac activity may become visible.
The timing matters. If a pregnancy is very early, certain findings may not yet be visible, so the results of an early scan may need to be interpreted in the context of how far along the pregnancy is.
Around 1 in 5 known pregnancies end in miscarriage. It is possible to think your pregnancy is continuing normally despite having a miscarriage, since you can still receive a positive pregnancy test result due to the remaining levels of hCG.
What Happens After the Scan?
Once the ultrasound is complete, you can discuss the findings and any questions you have with our medical team. If something requires further evaluation, you may require a follow-up ultrasound from your healthcare provider.
We will give you information about your options after an ultrasound, which include parenting, adoption, and abortion.
Get Support at First Care Clinic
You do not need to figure out an unexpected pregnancy on your own. First Care Clinic offers free pregnancy medical services in a confidential environment. We also offer STI testing and have a mobile unit.
Make your appointment and get the care you deserve.