Ultrasounds are a crucial part of modern healthcare, especially during pregnancy. If you’ve recently discovered you’re pregnant, congratulations—this can be a joyful and sometimes overwhelming time. One of the most important next steps in early pregnancy is undergoing an ultrasound scan.
But how exactly does an ultrasound work? What information can it reveal? Why is it so essential for your health and your baby’s development? This comprehensive guide breaks down what you need to know about ultrasounds—what they are, how they function, what they detect, and how they help you make informed decisions during pregnancy.
What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound, also known as a sonogram, is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of the inside of your body. In the context of pregnancy, ultrasounds allow healthcare professionals to visualize the uterus, ovaries, and the developing embryo or fetus.
Ultrasounds during pregnancy are considered safe, effective, and play a critical role in confirming a pregnancy, determining gestational age, monitoring fetal development, and identifying potential complications.
How Does an Ultrasound Work?
The Science Behind the Technology
Ultrasound machines work by emitting high-frequency sound waves that travel through the body and bounce off internal tissues, organs, and fluids. These waves are captured by a transducer, which sends data to a computer that translates the sound into visual images.
This technology allows healthcare providers to get a real-time view of your body. In pregnancy, it means observing the developing baby, assessing reproductive organs, and tracking changes.
Types of Ultrasound Scans
There are two main types of ultrasound scans used during pregnancy:
1. Transvaginal Ultrasound
In early pregnancy (typically before 11 weeks gestation), a transvaginal ultrasound may be recommended. This scan involves gently inserting a specialized transducer into the vagina. It provides clearer and more detailed images, especially when the embryo is still very small.
2. Abdominal Ultrasound
As the pregnancy progresses, most ultrasounds are performed abdominally. A conductive gel is applied to the abdomen, and the transducer is moved across the surface. This method is common in the second and third trimesters and is used to monitor fetal growth, movement, and development.
Why Are Ultrasounds Important in Pregnancy?
Ultrasounds offer essential information throughout your pregnancy journey, ensuring both your health and the baby’s safety. Here’s why ultrasound scans are so important:
- Confirming a Viable Pregnancy
An ultrasound confirms whether the pregnancy is viable—meaning that the embryo is developing normally and a heartbeat is present.
- Determining Gestational Age
Gestational age tells you how far along you are, which is critical for planning prenatal care and considering pregnancy options. Dating the pregnancy accurately also informs whether you qualify for options like medication abortion, which is FDA-approved through 10 weeks.
- Checking for Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. This condition is life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment. Ultrasounds detect ectopic pregnancies early so you can get the care you need.
- Detecting a Miscarriage
Roughly 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage, often without immediate symptoms. An ultrasound scan can confirm if the pregnancy has ended and guide your provider in managing your health appropriately.
- Monitoring Fetal Growth and Development
Later in pregnancy, ultrasounds help track fetal growth, measure fluid levels, evaluate the placenta, and assess fetal position. These insights support your provider in making safe decisions about your care.
When Are Ultrasounds Typically Performed During Pregnancy?
Most women receive at least two ultrasounds during a normal pregnancy, but you may have more if needed.
First Trimester (6–9 Weeks)
- Purpose: Confirm pregnancy, calculate gestational age, and rule out ectopic or molar pregnancies
- Method: both abdominal and transvaginal ultrasound
Second Trimester (18–22 Weeks)
- Purpose: Full anatomy scan to assess fetal organs, growth, and position
- Method: Abdominal ultrasound
Third Trimester (As Needed)
- Purpose: Monitor for concerns like low fluid, growth restriction, or breech position
- Method: Abdominal scan
Note: Most insurance providers cover medically necessary ultrasounds. Extra scans may not be covered unless your provider justifies them as essential.
What to Expect During an Ultrasound Appointment
Understanding what to expect from an ultrasound appointment helps reduce anxiety.
Before the Ultrasound
- You may be asked to drink water to fill your bladder, improving image quality.
- Wear comfortable clothing for easier access to your abdomen or pelvic area.
During the Ultrasound
- A registered nurse or sonographer will perform the scan.
- You may feel mild discomfort, but the procedure is non-invasive.
- You’ll often be able to see the ultrasound images in real-time.
After the Ultrasound
- Your provider will explain the results.
- If concerns arise, you’ll receive clear next steps, such as follow-up testing or referrals.
Making Informed Choices with Ultrasound Results
The results from your ultrasound scan can clarify your next steps. Whether you are continuing the pregnancy, considering adoption, or exploring abortion options, ultrasound results provide critical context.
- Medication abortion is FDA-approved up to 10 weeks—accurate dating helps determine eligibility.
- Ectopic pregnancies require emergency intervention, not abortion.
- If your pregnancy is nonviable, you do not need an abortion, but you may need other forms of medical care.
This is why getting an ultrasound after a positive pregnancy test is so essential.
Ava Health’s Ultrasound Services
At Ava Health, we offer free and compassionate services to help you navigate early pregnancy decisions with clarity.
Our Ultrasound Services Include:
- No-cost first or second-trimester obstetric ultrasounds
- Performed by trained registered nurses
- Transvaginal and abdominal scans available
- Safe, confidential, and judgment-free care environment
Who’s Eligible?
To determine your eligibility for a free ultrasound, schedule a pregnancy testing appointment at Ava Health. Our team will assess your needs and provide personalized care.
Your Next Step: Schedule a No-Cost Appointment
You deserve to feel confident and supported. Whether you’re sure of your next steps or still exploring your options, Ava Health is here to walk alongside you with professional medical care and trusted guidance.
Book Your Appointment Today
Contact Ava Health to schedule your free pregnancy confirmation and ultrasound. Our team is ready to help you find clarity in a safe and caring space.
Disclaimer: Ava Health does not provide or refer for abortion services. All information in this article is medically reviewed and accurate as of publication.
Sources
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American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Ultrasound Exams. ACOG, July 2021, https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/ultrasound-exams. Accessed 1 Aug. 2025. -
Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic Staff. “Pregnancy Ultrasound.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 23 Sept. 2022, https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ultrasound-during-pregnancy/about/pac-20395177. Accessed 1 Aug. 2025. -
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Mifepristone (Mifeprex). FDA, 28 Apr. 2017, https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifepristone-mifeprex. Accessed 1 Aug. 2025. -
American Pregnancy Association
American Pregnancy Association. “Ultrasound.” American Pregnancy Association, 2023, https://americanpregnancy.org/prenatal-testing/ultrasound/. Accessed 1 Aug. 2025. -
National Library of Medicine – Miscarriage Statistics
Wilcox, Allen J., et al. “Incidence of Early Loss of Pregnancy.” New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 319, no. 4, 1988, pp. 189–194. National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3393170/. Accessed 1 Aug. 2025. -
Johns Hopkins Medicine – Ectopic Pregnancy
Johns Hopkins Medicine. “Ectopic Pregnancy.” Johns Hopkins Medicine Health Library, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/ectopic-pregnancy. Accessed 1 Aug. 2025.