Feeling Unsure After a Positive Pregnancy Test?
Seeing a positive pregnancy test can bring up fear, uncertainty, and many questions. Those feelings are valid. Before making any decisions, it is important to pause, breathe, and gather accurate medical information about your pregnancy.
One of the most important first steps is getting an early pregnancy ultrasound. An ultrasound provides essential information that a home pregnancy test alone cannot.
Below are the key reasons why an ultrasound is medically important before deciding on next steps.
Why Is an Ultrasound Important in Early Pregnancy?
1. An Ultrasound Confirms Pregnancy Viability
A viable pregnancy means that your baby has a heartbeat and is healthy, as far as the ultrasound can tell.
Did you know that 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage? You may have taken a pregnancy test and received a positive result, however, those tests are only detecting the pregnancy hormones in your body.
If your ultrasound examination determines any fetal abnormalities or birth defects are present. For example if the ultrasound machine determines that a fetal heartbeat is non-existent, it could mean that your body is preparing for a miscarriage.
An ultrasound can help determine:
- Whether a fetal heartbeat is present
- Whether the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus
- Whether signs of miscarriage are present
This information is critical for understanding what is happening in your body and what medical care you may need.
2. An Ultrasound Confirms the Location of the Pregnancy
An ultrasound can identify whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus.
An ectopic pregnancy is when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside of the main cavity of the uterus. This most often occurs in the fallopian tube, which carries eggs from the ovaries to the uterus.
An ectopic pregnancy:
- Is not viable
- Can be life-threatening if untreated
- Requires immediate medical attention
Because ectopic pregnancies cannot continue safely, confirming pregnancy location early is essential for protecting your health. This is not a viable pregnancy and can be life-threatening for the mother. You should contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
3. An Ultrasound Accurately Determines Gestational Age
Gestational age refers to how far along the pregnancy is, and an ultrasound is the most accurate way to determine this.
This matters because:
- Abortion options depend on gestational age
- The abortion pill is typically only effective in the first 10 weeks
- Later gestational ages require different medical procedures
If you are considering abortion, most providers want to know how far along you are, and the only way to accurately determine that is with an ultrasound. The gestational age of your pregnancy will determine if abortion is an option for you. The abortion pill is only effective for the first 10 weeks, and surgical procedures vary depending on the development of the pregnancy. Receiving an ultrasound will help you stay safe and make an informed decision on your next steps.
Schedule a Free Ultrasound When You Are Ready
If you think you may be pregnant and want clear, accurate information, a limited obstetrical ultrasound can help you understand what is happening in your body. Free local ultrasounds are available at all four of our locations. Appointments are confidential and designed to support informed decision-making.
Learn More About Free Ultrasounds ➤
Sources:
Pregnancy Loss: 1 in 4 (winniepalmerhospital.com)
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ectopic-pregnancy/symptoms-causes/syc-20372088
