If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy, you may be wondering what occurs during an ultrasound and whether you need one. During an ultrasound, a small wand emits high-frequency sound waves that bounce off of tissues in the body. These sound waves help to create a picture, which is displayed on a screen.
Ultrasounds can be very helpful for medical providers. They help them to diagnose, identify, and manage a variety of conditions.
What Are Ultrasounds Used for During Pregnancy?
Ultrasounds can be very insightful during pregnancy. They can determine whether your pregnancy is viable or not. It is estimated that 1 in 4 pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage.
A miscarriage is “the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week.” It is important to have an ultrasound to check for miscarriage.
Having an ultrasound can also help your provider detect any signs of an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that is located outside of the uterus, such as in a fallopian tube. This type of pregnancy requires immediate medical attention and treatment because it can be very dangerous. An ultrasound may also tell you how far along you are in your pregnancy (gestational age). This information is important; a woman’s gestational age determines which type of abortion she might be eligible for, depending on safety and local laws.
If you are ten weeks or less along, the FDA approves of prescribing the abortion pill, otherwise known as a medical abortion. Before taking the abortion pill it is recommended that you date the pregnancy to ensure your health and safety. The best way to date your pregnancy is through ultrasound.
Where Can I Go for Pregnancy Confirmation?
At North Care Women’s Clinic we offer free, confidential pregnancy confirmation appointments to confirm and date your pregnancy. A nurse will determine if you are eligible for an ultrasound. Experiencing an unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming. You may have questions about your pregnancy or would like to discuss your options.
It is important to remember that you are not alone! We are here for you. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment with one of our caring professionals.
“Miscarriage.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 16 Oct. 2021, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes/syc-20354298.
“Ectopic Pregnancy.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 12 Mar. 2022, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/symptoms-causes/syc-20372088.
Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “Mifeprex (Mifepristone) Information.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA, https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation.
“Medical Abortion.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 29 July 2022, https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/medical-abortion/about/pac-20394687.
