Following a positive pregnancy test at our clinic, the next step is to confirm the pregnancy with a no-cost ultrasound. This additional step allows you to be sure you are pregnant. The ultrasound also provides crucial information that will help you make an informed pregnancy decision.
What is An Ultrasound?
An ultrasound, also known as a sonogram, is a painless imaging procedure that uses high-frequency soundwaves to project an image of your pregnancy onto a screen. First, the nurse applies a gel to your abdomen. Next, the nurse moves a wand, also known as a transducer, over and around your abdomen. Based on how the soundwaves bounce back, a projection of the uterus is created in picture form from the soundwaves and displayed on the ultrasound screen.
Why Do I Need An Ultrasound?
To begin with, an ultrasound confirms that you are pregnant. It provides necessary information when considering abortion or other pregnancy decisions. An ultrasound also answers several important questions: Where is the pregnancy located? Is the pregnancy viable? How far along am I?
Where Is The Pregnancy Located?
During your ultrasound, the nurse will assess the location of your pregnancy. If a pregnancy has implanted outside the uterus, such as in a fallopian tube, it’s called an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies cannot be safely carried to term. If left untreated, ectopic pregnancies can lead to the rupture of a fallopian tube, which can be a medical emergency. If the nurse cannot confirm an intrauterine pregnancy, appropriate healthcare referrals will be given to clients.
Is The Pregnancy Viable? 
During your ultrasound at We Care, a nurse can assess the viability of the pregnancy. Between 15-20% of pregnancies end in natural miscarriage. It is possible to get a false negative pregnancy test result days, or even weeks, after a miscarriage. A nurse will assess if a fetal heartbeat is detected. If no heartbeat is detected, this could signal that there is a problem with a pregnancy, or it can mean that a pregnancy is still early. If this happens during an ultrasound, a nurse will provide clients with appropriate referrals to confirm viability.
How Far Along Am I?
The nurse will estimate the age of your pregnancy. How far along you are in your pregnancy will impact your options. This is essential to know before making any pregnancy decisions. Before considering abortion, it is important for you to know how far along in your pregnancy you are. This information will help you to know what abortion procedure options are available to you.
How Can We Help?
Following your positive pregnancy test and ultrasound, it’s important to consider all available options. We’re here to provide medically-based, comprehensive information so that you can make an informed decision. You can rely on us to offer a safe and confidential space where you and your partner can explore your options and ask questions without judgment or pressure. We are committed to supporting you through this process and offer helpful resources that meet the needs of your unique situation.
Contact us to schedule your appointment. We are ready to help you take this important next step.
*Eligibility criteria may apply for no-cost ultrasound services at We Care Pregnancy Clinic. Our services are not a substitute for prenatal care.