What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound is an imaging scan. Unlike an X-ray, it doesn’t use radiation. An ultrasound uses the echoes of soundwaves to create images. There are two types: abdominal and transvaginal.
When receiving an abdominal ultrasound, the technician applies a gel to your stomach. They then rub a wand-like instrument (transducer) through the gel. The transducer picks up the sound waves as they bounce inside your body. The sound waves create an image that you can view on a screen.
Why Do I Need An Ultrasound?
A pregnancy test indicates the possibility of pregnancy, but an ultrasound gives you the detailed information you need. Here are three things you learn from an ultrasound:
- The number of weeks you have been pregnant.
If you are considering using the abortion pill, it is critical to know how far along you are in your pregnancy. The FDA approves the use of these drugs through 10 weeks of pregnancy only. The further along you are in your pregnancy, the less effective the drugs are. You could run the risk of an incomplete abortion, which means not all of the pregnancy is removed from your body. - The location of your pregnancy.
Most pregnancies form in a woman’s uterus. It is possible for a pregnancy to develop outside the uterus. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy. This type of pregnancy is extremely dangerous and can even be life-threatening. If you are diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy, you need to visit your healthcare provider as soon as possible. - If the pregnancy is growing or if you have had a miscarriage.
Experts estimate as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. Miscarriages usually occur very early in a pregnancy. It is possible to get a positive pregnancy test result even though you’ve miscarried because it takes your body time to return to its pre-pregnancy hormone levels.
Where Can I Get an Ultrasound?
Contact the Pregnancy Center of Coshocton for an ultrasound referral. The ultrasound is free and confidential. The information you gain is worth the drive. Call (740) 622-3808 or fill out our online contact form.
The PCC Difference
Since 1990, the Pregnancy Center of Coshocton has been serving the women and families facing unplanned pregnancies in our community. We're a safe, non-judgmental place to discuss your situation in private. We're here for you.
