Finding out you’re unexpectedly pregnant can bring up many emotions. You may be wondering what to do next after a positive pregnancy test, especially as you prepare for your first ultrasound.
Knowing how a limited ultrasound works and what to expect can help you feel more confident.
Sound Choices Pregnancy Clinic is here to help you navigate this unplanned pregnancy. We provide free limited ultrasounds following a positive pregnancy test performed by our registered nurse sonographers.
Schedule a free, confidential appointment today.
Anxiety Is Normal
It’s completely normal to feel anxious, excited, or unsure before your first ultrasound, especially if your pregnancy was unexpected or you don’t know what to expect. You may be worried about what the ultrasound will show or what you will feel during the appointment.
Remind yourself that you don’t need to have everything figured out before your ultrasound. The appointment is an opportunity to learn about your pregnancy, ask questions, and gain a better understanding of what is happening. At our clinic, your appointment is calm, private, and never rushed.
Bringing someone you trust, such as a friend, partner, or parent, can give you some extra support. You may bring an adult guest, but because we limit the number of people in our lobby, they will need to wait in their vehicle during your appointment.
You can also write down any questions you may have so you don’t forget to ask them.
Understand How an Ultrasound Works
A limited ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the inside of your uterus.
There are two types of ultrasounds. During a transvaginal ultrasound, a slender ultrasound wand covered with a protective sheath and gel is inserted into the vagina. This type of scan is often used during early pregnancy because it can produce clearer images of the uterus and pregnancy.
During an abdominal ultrasound, gel is applied to the abdomen before a small handheld device called a transducer is moved across the skin to create images.
Our sonographer will determine which type of ultrasound is suitable for you, depending on how far along you are, and can answer any questions or concerns during your appointment.
If you have any questions before your appointment, please contact us so we can put your mind at ease.
Remind Yourself Why You’re Having an Ultrasound
Pregnancy testing is an important first step because it detects human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone that begins rising shortly after implantation. A positive result indicates that hCG was detected, but it cannot provide important details about the pregnancy.
Once the pregnancy has progressed far enough to be visible, a limited ultrasound can confirm the pregnancy and provide information about:
- The gestational age (how far along your pregnancy is)
- Whether the pregnancy appears to be developing
- The location of the pregnancy
This information helps you better understand your pregnancy and can identify any concerns, such as an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage.
An ectopic pregnancy is when a pregnancy implants outside of the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy requires prompt medical attention and cannot develop normally. An ultrasound can help determine whether the pregnancy may be ectopic, although additional medical evaluation may sometimes be needed.
It is also possible that a miscarriage has occurred without you knowing, since hCG can remain in the body for a period of time after pregnancy loss, meaning you may still receive a positive pregnancy test. An ultrasound can detect cardiac activity and indicate whether the pregnancy appears to be progressing.
All these details can give you greater clarity as you consider how you want to move forward with this pregnancy.
Get a Free Limited Ultrasound at Sound Choices Pregnancy Clinic
Sound Choices Pregnancy Clinic provides free pregnancy services to help you understand your pregnancy and consider your next steps.
Our advocates are here to listen to you, answer any questions, and give you accurate information about your options. We also offer free educational classes if you’re planning to parent.
Contact us to make your appointment.
