An ultrasound is a safe, noninvasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the inside of the body. While ultrasounds are used in many areas of medicine, they are most commonly associated with pregnancy.
At Aid for Women, we offer free, confidential ultrasound exams to help you better understand your pregnancy and what comes next. If you have questions or need clarity, our team is here to provide accurate information in a supportive setting.
Schedule a confidential appointment today to receive an ultrasound and talk through your options.
How Does an Ultrasound Create Images?
Ultrasound imaging uses a computer monitor and a handheld device called a transducer. During the exam, the nurse or sonographer moves the transducer across the abdomen. Gel is used to help the sound waves travel more efficiently.
Sometimes a transvaginal ultrasound is used, which is when a small ultrasound device is inserted into the vagina. This helps get a clearer picture when the pregnancy is in an early stage.
Either transducer type sends sound waves into the body, and the echoes that bounce back are processed by a computer to create real-time images on the screen.
This process allows a nurse or sonographer to view detailed images of the pregnancy and give you critical health details.
What Can an Ultrasound Tell You?
In early pregnancy, an ultrasound helps answer three important questions:
- Is the pregnancy located inside the uterus?
- Is the pregnancy progressing with a detectable heartbeat?
- How far along is the pregnancy (gestational age)?
The answers to these questions are important for protecting your health and giving you essential information as you make informed decisions.
Screening for Potential Concerns
An ultrasound can also help identify situations that require immediate medical care. For example, if the pregnancy is located outside the uterus, it is considered an ectopic pregnancy. This type of pregnancy is not viable and requires prompt medical treatment.
If no heartbeat is detected, it may indicate a miscarriage, which could also require medical follow-up. It’s important to understand that abortion does not treat a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy. Miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy involve different types of care and should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Understanding Your Options
Knowing your gestational age can also help clarify your legal options and which medical procedures may be considered safer. For instance, a medical abortion is only FDA-approved through the first ten weeks of pregnancy. An ultrasound helps ensure you have accurate information so you can avoid unnecessary health risks.
If you are considering parenting or adoption, an ultrasound can also provide an estimated due date, which can help with planning.
Confirm Your Pregnancy at Aid for Women
Get a clearer picture of your pregnancy with a free, confidential ultrasound at Aid for Women. Our team will explain your results and discuss your options with care and compassion.
We’re here to support you during and after your pregnancy. Schedule an appointment online today.
Aid for Women does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.