If you find yourself unexpectedly pregnant and unsure about your next steps, scheduling an ultrasound is a practical choice.
During an ultrasound, a device called a transducer emits high-frequency sound waves. These sound waves go through the body and bounce off bones and tissues.
Once the transducer receives the reflected sound waves, it converts them into electrical signals. Next, a computer processes these signals and displays them as a visual ultrasound image.
An ultrasound can help you make informed decisions and better understand your situation and options. It’s a valuable tool that offers practical insights into your pregnancy and helps you navigate the path forward.
When is an Ultrasound Necessary?
If you have a positive pregnancy test, scheduling an ultrasound as your next course of action is essential.
An ultrasound serves multiple purposes: it provides information about your pregnancy options and it serves as a valuable health screening tool.
There are two primary types of ultrasounds during pregnancy: transvaginal and abdominal. Both methods employ a transducer—a device resembling a wand—to capture images of the fetus.
A transvaginal ultrasound is typically performed in the early stages of pregnancy and involves inserting the transducer into the vagina, while an abdominal ultrasound, conducted later in pregnancy, involves gliding the transducer across the abdomen.
Approximately 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, so it can also help determine your pregnancy’s viability.
Knowing the pregnancy’s gestational age can also help determine your options. For example, the abortion pill is only FDA-approved through ten weeks, so knowing the exact age may affect your next step.
Where Can I Get an Ultrasound?
Ridgeway Women’s Clinic offers free, confidential ultrasounds to help you gather crucial pregnancy details. Our trained patient care team will conduct the ultrasound and provide compassionate support and evidence-based education.
In addition to a free ultrasound, we offer option consultations, where you can explore all pregnancy options in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Contact us today to schedule a free and confidential appointment in the Freeport and Rockford areas (Loves Park).
