It wasn’t what you expected or hoped for, but your pregnancy test turned out to be positive. We imagine you were shocked and perhaps disappointed. We understand. An unexpected pregnancy can turn your world upside down.
You may think you know all you need to know, but a positive pregnancy test only indicates the possibility of pregnancy. It doesn’t confirm your pregnancy is developing or growing in the correct location.
Only an ultrasound can provide that information, but what is an ultrasound, and how does it work? Let’s take a closer look at how an ultrasound works and why you shouldn’t skip this important step.
What Is an Ultrasound?
A pregnancy ultrasound, also called sonography, is a noninvasive imaging test. It captures images of the inside of your uterus, but unlike X-rays, it doesn’t use radiation.
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image. Our trained technician places a gel-like substance on your abdomen. Then, a handheld device called a transducer is rubbed through the gel.
The transducer sends sound waves into your body. The echoes of those sound waves bounce back and create an image made up of black-and-white dots. A computer converts those dots into an image that appears on a screen.
Our trained technician explains what you’re seeing.
Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?
Only an ultrasound can give you important information about your pregnancy. Here’s what you’ll learn:
- If your pregnancy is developing or if you have had a miscarriage.
- According to research, as many as 10 to 20% of known pregnancies end in a miscarriage. The number may be as high as 30% or more because many miscarriages occur before a woman even knows she’s pregnant.
- It is entirely possible to get a positive pregnancy test after a miscarriage because it may take weeks before your hormones return to pre-pregnancy levels. An ultrasound determines if your pregnancy is developing based on detecting a fetal heartbeat.
- Although rare, some pregnancies implant and begin growing outside of the uterus, often in the fallopian tubes, which lead to the uterus. This is called an ectopic pregnancy. If this occurs, the tube could rupture as the pregnancy grows.
- A rupture could cause severe pain and life-threatening internal bleeding. You will need to visit your healthcare professional immediately.
- An ultrasound can determine how many weeks and days you have been pregnant. Although you may record your monthly cycle on a calendar or use a period tracker app, it can be hard to know the date of ovulation (when you are most likely to become pregnant). Many women are surprised to learn the date of conception is very different from what they expected.
McDowell Offers a Free Limited Obstetrical Ultrasound
If you’ve discovered you’re unexpectedly pregnant, you owe it to yourself to get as much information about your pregnancy as possible. McDowell Pregnancy Care Center offers free limited ultrasounds when you receive a positive pregnancy test at our center.
All of our services are offered to you for free. Start by scheduling a free, confidential appointment. We care about your health and safety.