An ultrasound is a harmless scan that uses sound waves to create an image of what’s happening inside your body. If you’re pregnant, getting an ultrasound is vital for your health and safety..
Read on to learn more about what to expect during an ultrasound and why you need one during pregnancy. Are you looking for a free, limited ultrasound? Do you want to talk to someone in person about your pregnancy? Contact Mosaic Sexual Health Clinic today to schedule a free, confidential appointment with one of our caring team members.
What Should I Expect During an Ultrasound?
Two main types of ultrasounds are used during pregnancy: transvaginal and abdominal. Both types rely on a transducer to move sound waves through your body; during a transvaginal ultrasound, this wand-like device is inserted into the vagina, whereas a transducer moves along the abdomen during an abdominal ultrasound. If your pregnancy is still really early, a transvaginal ultrasound is the best choice because it can give a closer image of the pregnancy.
During an ultrasound appointment, the ultrasound technician will move the transducer over your abdomen (or in your vagina). They will look for details about your pregnancy, such as its location, and also if fetal heartbeat is present. You can see your pregnancy by looking at the ultrasound screen.
Why Do I Need an Ultrasound During Pregnancy?
An ultrasound gives you important information about your pregnancy that will help keep you safe. An ultrasound can reveal:
- The location of your pregnancy. This is important to rule out a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy when your pregnancy develops outside the uterus. This is an emergency that would require a separate medical procedure because when the pregnancy grows outside the uterus, it can rupture the nearby internal structures.
- The age of your pregnancy. This is essential for determining what next steps are available for your pregnancy. For example, if you’re considering a chemical abortion (the “abortion pill”), it’s only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is under 10 weeks old. Because our ultrasounds are limited to confirming fetal heartbeat and that your pregnancy is located in the uterus, your doctor’s office would need to confirm the exact age of your pregnancy. However, our Center is able to provide an estimate based on the first day of your last period.
- The viability of your pregnancy. Did you know that roughly 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage? An ultrasound can confirm a heartbeat and rule out a miscarriage. (Our ultrasounds can confirm fetal heartbeat, indicating that the pregnancy is progressing. But, we are unable to provide a miscarriage diagnosis. This can be done by an emergency room or OB’s office. If you are in need of an OB referral, please contact our office.)
Next Steps
You’re not alone if you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and feeling overwhelmed. At Mosaic Sexual Health Clinic, we’re here for you. We offer free, limited ultrasounds and other pregnancy resources to help you feel supported and encouraged to make the best choice for your pregnancy. Were you thinking about abortion? We also offer free screenings that will give you the essential information you need to know before making a choice.These Pre-Abortion Screenings allow you to receive a free pregnancy test, limited ultrasound, and information about your options. Please note that our Center does not perform or refer for abortions, and this screening does not act as a replacement for the appointment required by Florida law 24 hours prior to an abortion procedure. Our services are intended to be free resources for your health, safety, and knowledge so you can make an informed and empowered choice. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.