Ultrasounds are diagnostic tools used for various purposes, including detecting medical conditions, monitoring internal structures, and even treating specific issues. They can also view a woman’s reproductive organs and monitor a pregnancy’s development.
If you’ve just received a positive pregnancy test, know that an ultrasound is an essential next step to verifying critical information. You deserve to be informed.
The Basics: How Does it Work?
An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves that are sent through your abdomen or vagina. These sound waves bounce off internal structures and produce images on a screen.
Ultrasound scans do not use any form of radiation; women typically have two ultrasounds in the case of a healthy pregnancy. Insurance companies usually won’t pay for additional scans if medically unnecessary.
Women typically have both abdominal and transvaginal ultrasounds if they are early on in their pregnancy. During a transvaginal scan, the transducer is inserted gently into the vagina. This is needed because it provides more detailed images.
Women can have an abdominal ultrasound later in pregnancy. A gel is applied to the abdomen, and the transducer is guided over this body part.
What Does an Ultrasound Detect?
An ultrasound provides valuable details for your healthcare provider and can assist you in deciding the next steps. For example, your first ultrasound verifies whether the pregnancy is developing, where it is located, and how far along you are.
No matter what pregnancy decision you make, you should know this information. As many as 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, which could require monitoring and medical treatment to prevent complications.
Other women experience an ectopic pregnancy, which happens when the fertilized egg implants in a location other than the uterus, such as a fallopian tube. This type of pregnancy cannot develop normally and requires immediate treatment to protect your life and health.
In addition to detecting viability and location, an ultrasound can help clarify your options. For example, medication abortion is FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation. Knowing how far along you are will help you make an informed decision.
We’re here to help you find clarity if you suspect you’re pregnant.
Learn Your Eligibility for an Ultrasound
Ava Health offers first and second-trimester limited obstetric ultrasounds with positive pregnancy testing at the clinic. We’ll assess your eligibility during your initial pregnancy testing appointment.
Our ultrasound scans can be transvaginal and/or abdominal and are performed by registered nurses with training in performing limited obstetric ultrasounds. We’re committed to providing the best care possible in a safe, supportive environment.
Schedule a no-cost appointment today. Our licensed medical team is ready to serve you.
Ava Health does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.