Did you know that over one in four pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage? A pregnancy test only indicates the possibility of pregnancy, but an ultrasound confirms if your pregnancy is viable and developing. We offer a free and confidential limited obstetrical ultrasound.
What Is An Ultrasound?
An ultrasound is an imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to capture images inside your body. Our trained technician applies a gel-like substance to your abdomen. Then, the technician slides a hand-held device called a transducer through the gel to reveal the contents of your uterus.
The echoes of the sound waves sent through your abdomen bounce back, creating images on a computer screen.
Why Should I Get an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound does more than confirm your pregnancy; it also alerts you to potential pregnancy risks and complications. Here are the three reasons an ultrasound is necessary after taking a pregnancy test:
1. Determine If the Pregnancy Is Developing
Experts estimate that as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage. Most miscarriages occur in the first 12 weeks. Because it takes a woman’s body time to return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels, she could get a positive pregnancy test and no longer be pregnant.
If an ultrasound detects a fetal heartbeat, your pregnancy is developing. If it doesn’t detect a heartbeat, it’s either too early in your pregnancy or you have had a miscarriage.
2. Learn How Far Along You Are
Even if you use a period tracker, it can be hard to pinpoint ovulation and conception. Many women are surprised to learn that the date they thought they became pregnant is different from reality.
If you are considering abortion, knowing the gestational date determines the method an abortion provider might use.
3. Check the Location of the Pregnancy
Although rare, some pregnancies form outside the uterus. This type of pregnancy is known as ectopic. If a pregnancy implants and grows anywhere other than the uterus, it can be extremely dangerous, even life-threatening.
An abortion does not stop an ectopic pregnancy. You will need to visit your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Get a Free and Confidential Ultrasound
Alpha Women’s Center provides free, limited abdominal ultrasounds. This is a critical step: get as much information as possible with an ultrasound.
You can schedule free and confidential pregnancy testing, and if your test is positive, we’ll schedule you for an ultrasound. We want you to have the details to make a confident decision.
Make an appointment today.
