If you suspect you are pregnant, you may be wondering if or when you might need an ultrasound. Whether you’re considering having an abortion or continuing your pregnancy, a first-trimester ultrasound is a can’t-miss step for your personal health.
What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound, also known as a sonogram, is a type of imaging tool that healthcare providers use to see an image of the inside of a patient’s body. An X-ray is another type of imaging exam you may have had before, but the two methods work differently.
Are Ultrasounds Safe?
Ultrasounds are a very safe and very common type of exam. They are used to help people in many different medical situations, not just pregnancy.
Ultrasounds have been used for over sixty years. They are typically painless, and there are no known risks.
How Does an Ultrasound Work?
In an ultrasound, the image is created by low-power sound waves (not radiation).
A small wand-like device sends sound waves into the body and records the waves that echo back.
A computer uses these sound waves to display an image on a screen, which a trained professional then uses to understand what is happening inside the body.
What Does This Mean for Me?
In a first-trimester transabdominal ultrasound, you’ll be asked to lie down on an exam table and apply a water-based gel to your belly.
Then the healthcare professional will move the small wand-like device over your belly.
The exam itself is usually done faster than it takes to watch one episode of your favorite TV show… between twenty and thirty minutes! If you choose, we can get an even clearer picture with an internal ultrasound.
Here at Pregnancy Care Center of Petoskey, you may choose to bring a friend along to support you during your appointment, too.
How Are Ultrasounds Used in Pregnancy?
Doctors may use ultrasounds for special reasons throughout a pregnancy. But even for women who don’t continue their pregnancy, having an initial first-trimester ultrasound is important for their overall health.
Why Is an Ultrasound Important?
An Ultrasound Confirms Pregnancy.
A first-trimester ultrasound is the only way to know for sure you are pregnant.
False-positive results can happen, and miscarriage after a positive pregnancy test is also possible.
An Ultrasound Reveals How Long You Have Been Pregnant.
Your healthcare provider will be able to use measurements from the ultrasound to learn how long you have been pregnant.
Because the abortion pill is designed to work during a specific timeframe within a pregnancy, it’s important to confirm the dating of your pregnancy with an ultrasound. This way, you can have accurate information about the options available to you.
An Ultrasound Makes Sure You Are Safe.
It sounds strange, but sometimes pregnancies can occur in other parts of your reproductive system. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy, which is a dangerous condition that requires special medical care.
An ultrasound will confirm that your pregnancy is safely located within your uterus, and if it isn’t, you’ll be able to receive appropriate treatment.
Schedule A Free Appointment
Your health is important to you, and it matters to us, too. At Pregnancy Care Center of Petoskey, we’re here to support you.
As with all our services, we provide first-trimester transabdominal ultrasounds at no cost to you.
Call us at 231-348-3388 or message us today to schedule an appointment. It’s free and confidential, and no insurance is necessary.