If you’ve recently received a positive pregnancy test, you may be wondering what comes next. At Hope Women’s Center, the next step is often an ultrasound. This simple scan provides vital details about your pregnancy so you can protect your health.
Schedule your no-cost appointment today to confirm your pregnancy and learn about your options.
How Ultrasound Works
An ultrasound uses sound waves—not radiation—to create images of what’s happening inside your uterus. A trained nurse or technician applies a special gel to your abdomen and then moves a small handheld device, called a transducer, over your stomach area. The sound waves bounce off internal structures and return as echoes, which a computer translates into real-time images on a screen.
If you are very early in pregnancy, the sonographer may perform a transvaginal ultrasound, which uses a wand-like transducer to produce a clearer image.
What Information Does an Ultrasound Provide?
At Hope Women’s Center, we provide limited ultrasounds for women who have already had a positive pregnancy test at our center. These scans reveal three important details:
- Location – Is your pregnancy in the uterus or outside (ectopic)? An ectopic pregnancy requires immediate medical attention.
- Heartbeat – Is the pregnancy progressing, or have you possibly experienced a miscarriage?
- Gestational Age – How far along are you? This information is essential when considering your pregnancy options, as certain abortion procedures are limited to a certain time period.
Why This Step Matters
Even if you feel sure about your next steps, an ultrasound safeguards your health by ruling out conditions like ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. It also ensures you have accurate details about your pregnancy before making any decisions.
Get the whole picture. Our caring team is here to provide the clarity and support you deserve in a safe and welcoming environment.
Schedule your limited ultrasound appointment today.
FAQs About Ultrasound
Does an ultrasound hurt?
They shouldn’t hurt. You may feel slight pressure from the transducer, especially if you have a full bladder.
When can an ultrasound detect a heartbeat?
A fetal heartbeat is often visible by around six weeks of pregnancy.
Can I have an ultrasound without a positive pregnancy test?
At Hope Women’s Center, a positive pregnancy test from our center is required before qualifying for an ultrasound.