If you find yourself unexpectedly pregnant and unsure about your options, getting an ultrasound is an essential first step.
An ultrasound works by sending sound waves through your body using a transducer. These waves bounce off bones and tissues, and the device captures the returning waves to produce an image on a computer screen.
This ultrasound image provides essential details about your pregnancy, helping you to understand your situation better and make informed decisions. It’s a valuable tool for gaining clarity and deciding on your next course of action.
The Two Types of Ultrasounds
During pregnancy, there are two primary ultrasound methods: transvaginal and abdominal. Both techniques use a transducer to emit sound waves into the body. In a transvaginal ultrasound, the transducer is inserted into the vagina, whereas in an abdominal ultrasound, it is gently moved across the belly.
At your ultrasound appointment, the technician will use the transducer either over your abdomen or within the vagina to examine the pregnancy. You will also have the opportunity to view images of your pregnancy on the screen.
Why is an Ultrasound Important?
An ultrasound gathers crucial information about your pregnancy you’ll want to know.
First, given that about 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, an ultrasound can be instrumental in assessing whether your pregnancy is developing.
Next, an ultrasound can accurately tell your gestational age or how far along your pregnancy is. Knowing the age is important for reviewing which pregnancy options are available to you.
Lastly, an ultrasound also reveals other vital information, such as the exact location of the pregnancy. This is essential for identifying an ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo implants outside the uterus, a condition that necessitates prompt medical intervention.
Get a Free and Confidential Ultrasound
Whether you’re considering parenting, adoption, or abortion, getting an ultrasound is a necessary step to unlocking which routes are available to you.
Hope House Women’s Clinic can get you an ultrasound when you get free lab-quality pregnancy testing with us. We can also get you detailed information on your options and next steps.
Contact us to get started today.