Do You Need an Ultrasound?

A pregnancy test can show that hCG is present, but it cannot give you the full picture.

A limited ultrasound provides more information about what is happening in your body. At Her Choice Women’s Health, ultrasounds are provided in a supportive medical setting by trained staff.

What a Limited Ultrasound Can Show

Our limited ultrasound provides important details about your pregnancy, including:

• Location of the pregnancy: Confirms the pregnancy is in the uterus and checks for signs of an ectopic pregnancy
• Pregnancy viability: Shows whether cardiac activity is present and identifies any signs of miscarriage
• Gestational age: Helps determine how far along you are and an estimated due date

These details are not available through a pregnancy test alone.

How an Ultrasound Works

An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of your body. A small handheld device, called a transducer, sends sound waves into the body. These waves reflect off tissues and return as echoes, which are used to form images on a screen.

Ultrasound does not use radiation and is considered safe when used as directed.

There are two types of ultrasounds that may be used, depending on how far along you are.

An abdominal ultrasound is the most common. A small amount of gel is placed on your abdomen, and a handheld device moves across the skin to create images.

In early pregnancy, a transvaginal ultrasound may be used to get a clearer view. This involves a small, wand-shaped device that is inserted into the vagina to capture more detailed images.

Why Location Is Important

One of the first things an ultrasound checks is where the pregnancy is located.

An ectopic pregnancy, occurring in about 2% of known pregnancies, happens when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy cannot continue and requires prompt medical attention, as it can lead to a ruptured fallopian tube and internal bleeding.

A pregnancy test cannot detect this, but an ultrasound can help identify it.

Why Early Development Is Important

An ultrasound can also help assess how the pregnancy is developing in the early weeks. One way this is evaluated is by checking for cardiac activity. The presence or absence of cardiac activity can give important information about how the pregnancy is progressing.

Miscarriage occurs in about 1 in 4 of known pregnancies. An ultrasound can help identify signs that may indicate the need for follow-up care and provide helpful information as you consider your next step.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Before receiving a limited ultrasound, you will have a confidential pregnancy test.

If your test is positive, you may be eligible for an ultrasound.

During your visit:

• A member of our medical team will perform the scan
• You will be able to see the screen during the ultrasound
• We will walk you through what you are seeing and answer your questions

Book an appointment today to learn more about your pregnancy and your options.