During an ultrasound, a transducer emits high-frequency sound waves that travel through the body. As the sound waves encounter different tissues and structures within the body, they are reflected back to the transducer at varying degrees.
The transducer converts these sound waves into electrical signals, which a computer uses to produce a visual ultrasound image.
If you suspect that you are pregnant or perhaps you’ve confirmed it with a positive at-home pregnancy test, scheduling an ultrasound is a great next step, even if you’re unsure of your pregnancy decision.
At Life Choices Medical, we offer no-charge ultrasounds that provide valuable insight into your pregnancy’s health, which can affect your options.
Are Ultrasounds Safe?
Qualified healthcare professionals consider ultrasounds a safe imaging technique as they use high-frequency sound waves rather than ionizing radiation (like an X-ray).
When is an Ultrasound Necessary?
If you have confirmed your pregnancy with a positive test, an ultrasound is highly recommended because it serves several important purposes.
An ultrasound confirms your pregnancy location. Most healthy pregnancies develop in the uterus, but an ultrasound can reveal whether or not it implants outside of the uterus. If it is located outside, such as in the fallopian tube, this is an ectopic pregnancy and requires immediate medical attention.
About 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage, so an ultrasound will also be able to determine your pregnancy’s viability (whether there’s a heartbeat and the pregnancy is progressing).
In an ultrasound exam, you’ll also learn your pregnancy’s gestational age to help determine your options. For example, a chemical abortion is only allowed through ten weeks of gestational age, so knowing the exact age can affect available options.
Where Can I Get a No-Charge Ultrasound?
Life Choices Medical offers no-cost, confidential ultrasounds to help you gather these crucial pregnancy details. Our trained staff will conduct the ultrasound and provide evidence-based education about the pregnancy process in a compassionate, supportive environment.
In addition to the no-charge pregnancy ultrasound, we also offer option consultations. During these consultations, you can explore your pregnancy options in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!