Once you find out you’re pregnant, getting an ultrasound is an essential next step. This simple scan will give you the details you need to know about your pregnancy in order to stay safe and know how to move forward.
At Sage Women’s Center, we offer limited ultrasounds for no charge, because we believe you should have the information you need to stay healthy and be informed.
Read on to learn more about how a limited ultrasound works during the first trimester, how it can help protect your health, and why it’s an essential step before making a pregnancy decision.
How a Limited Ultrasound Works During the First Trimester
A limited, first-trimester ultrasound at Sage Women’s Center can be performed in one of two ways: transvaginally and abdominally. Both options use a transducer (the wand-like part of the ultrasound machine) to create an image of your pregnancy.
Transvaginal ultrasound is used during early pregnancy and involves inserting the transducer gently into the vagina. Abdominal ultrasound is used later in pregnancy and involves moving the transducer over your abdomen.
What You Can Learn During a Limited, First-Trimester Ultrasound
During a limited ultrasound, you will learn the essential details you need to know about your pregnancy, including:
- Gestational age of your pregnancy. As you’re considering your pregnancy options, you need to know your pregnancy’s gestational age, as it will determine what’s available (for example, the abortion drugs are only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is 10 weeks gestation or under)—and things like period tracker apps aren’t enough to determine this detail. Ultrasound is the only reliable way to discover your pregnancy’s gestational age.
- Location of your pregnancy. Most pregnancies develop inside the uterus. However, on rare occasions, a pregnancy will develop outside the uterus. This is a life-threatening situation known as ectopic pregnancy, and it requires emergency medical care.
- Viability of your pregnancy. Roughly 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, and it’s possible to experience one and not know it. If you’ve experienced a miscarriage, you will need to follow up with a qualified physician.
Please note that a limited ultrasound will not diagnose any fetal abnormalities or reveal your pregnancy’s gender.
Get Your Limited Ultrasound ASAP
Before making any pregnancy decisions, it’s critical to get a limited ultrasound. That way, if you’re experiencing any complications (like ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage), you can receive prompt medical treatment.
At Sage Women’s Center, we care about your health, which is why we offer limited ultrasounds at no charge. Don’t delay. Contact us today to schedule your private appointment. You’re not alone in this. We’re here for you.