Ultrasound is a harmless scan that uses sound waves to create a picture of what’s happening inside your body. If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, ultrasound is an essential first step that can help protect your health.
Read on to learn more about how ultrasound can help keep you safe during pregnancy. Or, if you’re looking to speak to someone about your pregnancy options, contact Empower Life Center to be connected to one of our caring team members. All appointments are free and confidential.
How Does an Ultrasound Protect My Health During Pregnancy?
Ultrasound can reveal three important details about your pregnancy: its location, age, and viability.
Location of Your Pregnancy
Typical pregnancies develop in the uterus. However, in a small number of cases, the pregnancy attaches and develops outside the uterus. This is a life-threatening condition known as ectopic pregnancy and requires emergency medical treatment.
Ultrasound can reveal where your pregnancy is located to help rule out ectopic pregnancy and ensure that your pregnancy is developing in a healthy location.
Age of Your Pregnancy
Knowing the age of your pregnancy is important as you consider your pregnancy options. For example, medical abortion is only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is under 10 weeks old. If you’re thinking about this option, an ultrasound can reveal the relative age of your pregnancy.
An ultrasound determines the age of your pregnancy by taking measurements and using this information alongside your menstrual data (specifically, the date of your last period).
Viability of Your Pregnancy
Did you know that roughly 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage? Just because you received a positive result on a pregnancy test doesn’t mean you’re still pregnant. Receiving an ultrasound is an essential step in confirming your pregnancy.
Next Steps
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At PHC of Central Missouri, we’re here for you with free pregnancy resources, including ultrasounds, that can help you make a confident decision about how to move forward. Contact us today to be connected to one of our caring team members.