You can detect an embryo via ultrasound as early as six weeks gestational age, although it’s more common to have an initial ultrasound after eight weeks.
At The Pregnancy Center of West Houston, we care about your well-being and health. That’s why we offer free pregnancy testing, STI testing, and ultrasounds, providing you with crucial details about your pregnancy so you can move forward confidently.
What Should I Expect During a Prenatal Ultrasound?
When you go in for a prenatal ultrasound, the type of scan you’ll receive depends on your pregnancy’s estimated gestational age. If you’re in the first trimester, a transvaginal ultrasound will likely offer the most precise images.
Similar to a pap smear, you’ll remove clothing from the waist down and sit with your feet in stirrups for a transvaginal ultrasound. The ultrasound technician will gently insert a lubricated transducer (the wandlike part of the ultrasound machine) into your vagina, guiding it to capture pregnancy images.
If it’s later in the pregnancy, you may get an abdominal ultrasound (also known as a pelvic ultrasound). This is a more non-invasive option than transvaginal, as the transducer is moved along your abdomen.
When is an Ultrasound Necessary?
If you received a positive pregnancy test result, an ultrasound is the next step. This simple scan confirms the pregnancy’s location, ruling out a life-threatening ectopic pregnancy that requires immediate medical attention.
Ultrasounds also determine whether you’re still pregnant or have miscarried. This is important since up to 1 in 4 pregnancies end in miscarriage.
An ultrasound can also confirm your pregnancy’s gestational age, which determines what pregnancy options are available.
Where can I Get an Ultrasound?
At The Pregnancy Center of West Houston, we offer limited free ultrasounds to provide basic but crucial information about your pregnancy.
We also offer free consultations, during which you can learn about the crucial details of your pregnancy and available options.
Contact us today to book your appointment – we’re here for you!