You may feel you have all the information you need when you see that positive test. But without knowing specific pregnancy details, you won’t fully understand your options and whether you should take other steps to protect your health.
Amador Pregnancy & Family Resource Center is here for you; we know this situation can be difficult. You may be eligible for a no-cost ultrasound referral following a positive test at our center.
What Is An Ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of your body’s internal structures. These images can assess your health, detect certain conditions, and more.
An obstetric ultrasound assesses the health of your pregnancy and looks for potential issues.
There are two types:
Abdominal Ultrasound
With an abdominal ultrasound, the sonographer applies gel to your abdomen and rubs a transducer (a small, wandlike device) over that area to create sound waves. This type of ultrasound is noninvasive.
Transvaginal Ultrasound
A transvaginal ultrasound, on the other hand, is invasive. The transducer will be gently inserted into your vagina to create the most precise images. This type of ultrasound is often performed during the earliest stages of pregnancy.
Why Do I Need An Ultrasound?
Even if you’re considering abortion, you need an ultrasound. This scan confirms the following about your pregnancy:
- Viability: Is your pregnancy progressing normally? Does it have a detectable heartbeat? As many as 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, which may require medical treatment and monitoring.
- Gestational age: How far along are you? This information is crucial to understanding your options.
For example, the FDA has only approved medical abortion through 10 weeks gestation. - Location: Is your pregnancy located in the uterus? Sometimes, women have an ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when the fertilized egg implants in another area (like in a fallopian tube).
This condition is dangerous and requires emergency medical treatment.
Learning these critical details helps determine whether you need further medical attention. It also confirms vital information you need to make a decision.
Before Deciding
You deserve the facts when making a pregnancy decision. We refer for ultrasounds at one of our three sister centers, and you may be eligible for a gas card, too.
Schedule an initial appointment today to learn more. We’re here for you with the no-cost, confidential services you deserve.
