If you’ve recently seen two pink lines on a positive pregnancy test, it’s time to schedule an obstetric ultrasound. Here are three reasons this is an essential next step for your health.
An Ultrasound Will Confirm Viability
An ultrasound will confirm if a pregnancy is viable, and rule out an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus–usually in the fallopian tube. This pregnancy is not viable and requires medical treatment. This can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. If detected early, medication can be administered to stop the growth of the embryo; if the pregnancy has progressed or ruptured, surgery may be required.
This information is crucial before making a decision about your pregnancy, especially if you are considering abortion. It is important to note that removing an ectopic pregnancy is not the same as an abortion; the abortion pill will not expel an ectopic pregnancy.
An Ultrasound Will Confirm a Heartbeat
In addition to confirming the pregnancy is intrauterine, or developing in the uterus, the ultrasound will confirm if a heartbeat is present. Your provider will measure the fetal heart rate and determine if it is within the normal range.
An embryo’s heart begins developing around 5 weeks into pregnancy, and you can see or hear the heartbeat around 6 weeks of development, according to What to Expect:
Can’t hear the heartbeat yet? Don’t worry. It likely just means that your shy guy is hiding in the corner of your uterus or has his back facing out, making it trickier to pick up on an ultrasound. At your next appointment, your practitioner will check to make sure everything is okay. Chances are, you’ll be able to hear some comforting sounds then.
An Ultrasound Will Confirm the Fetus's Gestational Age
While the LMP (last menstrual period) method can estimate how many weeks pregnant you are, an ultrasound can give you a more accurate gestational age. This can be especially helpful if you have an irregular period. Your registered nurse will measure the pregnancy within the uterus to determine how far along you are in your pregnancy.
It’s important to note that this is pivotal information if you are considering abortion; gestational age will impact the type of abortion procedure you would receive.
Free Ultrasound Appointments at The Pregnancy Network
The Pregnancy Network is the only place in Guilford County that provides free ultrasounds. All medical services are administered by staff registered nurses who are trained and certified in administering limited obstetrical ultrasounds. Ultrasound scans are reviewed by board-certified OB-GYNS who serve as volunteer Medical Directors.
Here’s what you can expect at your appointment at The Pregnancy Network:
Dr. Charlie Pickens is one of the Medical Directors who oversees the medical services offered at The Pregnancy Network. In this video, he describes what he and the other Medical Directors look for in each scan performed at The Pregnancy Network.
Kacey Minor
Kacey Minor is the Communications Manager at The Pregnancy Network.