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What to Expect During an Ultrasound

You confirmed you’re pregnant with a test, and you’ve had some time to let the news settle in. It’s not easy and the questions keep coming. Get your many questions answered by receiving an ultrasound today.

By confirming your pregnancy through a pregnancy test, you have one step down. Next, an ultrasound is a helpful step forward, as it reveals major details of your pregnancy and what pregnancy options you’re eligible for. Here is more information about what to expect during an ultrasound.

What Is an Ultrasound?

An ultrasound, also known as a sonogram, is an imaging technique used to create images of a pregnancy in the uterus through sound waves. Ultrasounds can help you determine your pregnancy’s growth and the health of your pregnancy. There are three major details that an ultrasound confirms:

1. Confirms the viability

Ultrasound can show you if your pregnancy is viable, meaning likely to continue on its own. It can alert you to any complications or areas that need medical attention. This is why it’s so important to not skip this pregnancy confirmation step.

2. Confirms the pregnancy location

You need to know if your pregnancy is growing in the proper place, within your uterus. Some women experience what is called an ectopic pregnancy, where the fetus develops outside of the uterus, often in the fallopian tube. An ultrasound is the only way to know if this is the case.

3. Determines the gestational age

To know what pregnancy options you have, you need to know how far along you are. You can learn your due date and understand where you are at in your pregnancy.

How does Ultrasound work?

An ultrasound is a simple process, including two different fetal ultrasound types:

  • Transabdominal ultrasound: With this type of ultrasound, a transducer device is moved over your abdomen with a gel substance to detect your pregnancy.
  • Transvaginal ultrasound: This type of ultrasound is most commonly used during early pregnancy. A wand-like transducer is placed internally in your vagina and creates sound waves to detect your pregnancy.

How Important is Having an Ultrasound?

An ultrasound is vitally important to move forward in your pregnancy. It brings the clarity you’re looking for and answers many of your questions about your unexpected pregnancy.

Schedule a no-cost and confidential ultrasound appointment at Avenue Women’s Center today. Our compassionate staff will walk you through the process and sit down with you afterward to share your results.

We can help you navigate all your questions and pregnancy options. We are here to support you.

Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.

The information provided here is general in nature.  It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center.  If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention.  Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.