Did you recently receive a positive pregnancy test result? If so, getting an ultrasound is the next step for confirming your pregnancy. This scan can help give you the essential details you need to know about your pregnancy to stay safe.

How Does an Ultrasound work?

Ultrasound is a scan that uses sound waves to create an image of your internal structures.

Two main types of ultrasound are used during pregnancy: transvaginal and abdominal. Both types of ultrasound use a transducer (the wand-like part of the ultrasound machine) to transmit sound waves and create an image, but they are used for different purposes. You can see your pregnancy on the ultrasound screen during both types of ultrasound.

Transvaginal ultrasound

During a transvaginal ultrasound, the transducer is gently inserted into your vagina, about the same depth as a tampon. This type of ultrasound is done early in pregnancy because it provides the clearest image.

Abdominal Ultrasound

Abdominal ultrasound is done later in pregnancy. The sonographer (the medical professional running the ultrasound machine) will squirt a jelly-like substance onto your belly during this type of ultrasound. This helps create a clearer image. Then, the sonographer will move the transducer along your abdomen to gather essential details about your pregnancy.

Why Do I need an ultrasound?

Ultrasound is an essential tool for protecting your health and helping determine what pregnancy options are available.

Getting an ultrasound will help you discover your pregnancy’s:

• Gestational age: During an ultrasound, many women are surprised to learn that their pregnancies are much further along than they thought. Even if you used a pregnancy tracker app, getting an ultrasound is the only reliable way to know how far along you are. This is essential if you’re considering certain pregnancy options (for example, medical abortion is only FDA-approved if you’ve been pregnant for fewer than 10 weeks).
• Location: Rarely, a pregnancy will grow and develop outside the uterus. This is a life-threatening emergency known as ectopic pregnancy. And if you’re experiencing one, you will need immediate medical intervention.
• Viability: Roughly 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, and it’s possible you’ve miscarried since receiving your positive pregnancy test result. If you’ve had a miscarriage, you will need follow-up care to ensure you don’t face complications.

Where Can I get an ultrasound for free?

At Care Net Pregnancy Center of Paradise, we offer free, limited obstetrical ultrasound scans performed by a nurse because we believe you deserve access to the information you need to protect your health.

Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment. You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.