If you are facing an unintended pregnancy, you may be wondering what an ultrasound is and why you need one. During an ultrasound, a small wand emits high-frequency sound waves that bounce off tissues in the body. These sound waves create a picture, which is displayed on a screen.
What are Ultrasounds Used for During Pregnancy?
Ultrasounds are very helpful during pregnancy. They can be used to determine whether your pregnancy is viable or not. The Mayo Clinic states that 10-20% of 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 any signs of a miscarriage.
An ultrasound also allows your provider to check for 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. Ectopic pregnancies can be extremely dangerous and require immediate medical treatment, so it is important to have an ultrasound to check for signs of one.
An ultrasound will also determine your gestational age, or how far along you are in your pregnancy.
Where Can I Go for an Ultrasound?
At Hope Pregnancy Centers of Brazos Valley, we offer limited first-trimester ultrasounds if your pregnancy test is positive. This service is completely free and confidential. Although our ultrasounds are administered by a trained nurse, they do not take the place of services offered by your medical provider.
If you would like to discuss your pregnancy options, we are here for you! We provide all of our servicings in a non-judgmental, safe environment. Experiencing an unintended pregnancy can be frightening, but know that you aren’t alone.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!