The Ultimate Ultrasound Breakdown: A Beginner’s Guide
Ultrasound is a simple scan that uses sound waves to create a picture of your internal structures.
During pregnancy, ultrasound reveals key details about your pregnancy that can help keep you safe. This scan is considered low-risk during pregnancy because it doesn’t use radiation like an X-ray or CT scan.
This article will highlight how ultrasound works and why it’s an essential first step during pregnancy. However, if you want to talk to someone in person about your pregnancy options or are looking for free pregnancy services, like ultrasound, contact Crystal Women’s Clinic. All appointments and resources are free and confidential.
How Does Ultrasound Work?
A pregnancy ultrasound can happen in one of two ways: transvaginally or abdominally.
A transvaginal ultrasound is used early in pregnancy because it provides a clearer picture of what’s happening in your uterus. During this type of ultrasound, the transducer (the wand-like part of the ultrasound machine) is placed gently inside your vagina.
During an abdominal ultrasound, used later in pregnancy, the transducer is moved along your abdomen.
Both types of ultrasound will allow you to see an image of your pregnancy projected onto the screen.
How Does an Ultrasound Protect My Health?
No matter what pregnancy decision you’re considering, an ultrasound is a key step that can help safeguard your health. An ultrasound can reveal the following important details about your pregnancy:
- Gestational age. Period tracker apps and the estimated date of conception alone aren’t enough to determine the gestational age of your pregnancy. An ultrasound will take measurements that can more accurately determine the gestational age. This is vital if you’re considering an option like the abortion pill, since these drugs are only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is under 10 weeks gestation.
- Location. Most pregnancies develop in the uterus. But rarely, the embryo attaches and grows outside the uterus. This is called an ectopic pregnancy. It’s a life-threatening emergency that needs immediate medical treatment.
- Viability. Roughly 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, and it’s possible to experience one without any immediate symptoms. An ultrasound will look for signs of life and help rule out miscarriage. If you’ve had one, you will need medical follow-up to ensure you don’t face complications.
You’re Not Alone
Finding out you’re unexpectedly pregnant can turn your world upside down, but we’re here to help you find stability.
At Crystal Women’s Clinic, we offer free and confidential pregnancy resources—including ultrasounds—that can help you feel supported to make an informed decision about how to move forward.
Contact us today to schedule your free appointment with one of our caring team members.
Pregnancy Testing
A pregnancy test determines whether you are pregnant by detecting the presence of hCG, the hormone associated with pregnancy. You will give a urine sample during your appointment, and then one of our nurses will administer the test. Testing only takes a few minutes, and you will have your result during your appointment.
Ultrasounds
Determine what choices you have with an ultrasound. An ultrasound may alert you to any complications. It is a necessary step of the pregnancy confirmation process, as it’s the only way to confirm three aspects of your pregnancy. Get a free ultrasound with us today.
Pregnancy Testing
A pregnancy test determines whether you are pregnant by detecting the presence of hCG, the hormone associated with pregnancy. You will give a urine sample during your appointment, and then one of our nurses will administer the test. Testing only takes a few minutes, and you will have your result during your appointment.
Ultrasounds
Determine what choices you have with an ultrasound. An ultrasound may alert you to any complications. It is a necessary step of the pregnancy confirmation process, as it’s the only way to confirm three aspects of your pregnancy. Get a free ultrasound with us today.
