A positive result on your pregnancy test does not mean you are done learning about your pregnancy. You still need more information. Your next step is to have an ultrasound. You may have questions or feel anxious. We are here to offer support to women facing unplanned pregnancies. At Elevier, we offer no-cost limited obstetrical ultrasounds performed by a Medical Professional and read by an OB/GYN.
What an ultrasound does
Although it may sound strange to use sound waves to create a picture, that is exactly what an ultrasound does. Ultrasound is an imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to capture images from the inside of your uterus and creates an image on a TV monitor.
The reason for an ultrasound
As we said, a positive pregnancy test result is not the only thing you need to know about your pregnancy. There are three important questions you need answered and only a limited obstetrical ultrasound can do that for you.
Question #1: is the pregnancy viable?
Since a significant number of known pregnancies end in natural miscarriage, you need to confirm yours. When a heartbeat is not detected, it may be either too early in your pregnancy or you may have miscarried. A limited obstetrical ultrasound will determine if you are farther than six weeks along and if the pregnancy is viable. A limited obstetrical ultrasound allows you to visually verify the pregnancy by locating the pregnancy in your uterus.
Question #2: where is the pregnancy located?
It may seem like a ridiculous question, but there is a possibility that your pregnancy is not located in your uterus. Sometimes the embryo implants elsewhere. This is called a tubal or ectopic pregnancy. This type of pregnancy poses serious health threats and you need to see your doctor immediately.
Question #3: how far along am I?
Learning the gestational age of your pregnancy will tell you how far along you are. A limited obstetrical ultrasound is the only way to get this information. You learn the date of conception, as well as an estimation of your due date. If you are considering abortion, the gestational age determines whether you can have a non-surgical or surgical abortion.
After the ultrasound
If your pregnancy test was positive and you have had a limited obstetrical ultrasound, it is time to talk about your options. At Elevier, we give you the most current evidence-based medical information to help in your decision making. Contact us for an appointment. No matter the circumstances or what you are considering, our caring professionals are available to serve and support you.