If you think you may be pregnant, you might be wondering if it’s time to schedule an appointment for an ultrasound.
Ultrasounds are one of the most important steps to take as you learn more about your pregnancy, however, it can be difficult to know when and where to get one.
How Does an Ultrasound Work?
It can be intimidating to schedule an appointment for something that you don’t fully understand. Thankfully, ultrasounds are simple, non-invasive, and painless.
Ultrasounds, also referred to as sonograms, are imaging scans that use high-frequency soundwaves to create images of the inside of the body. They can be used to diagnose medical conditions, guide a doctor during a procedure, and, in this case, show an image of what’s happening inside the uterus.
During pregnancy, ultrasounds are useful in determining the age, location, and viability of the fetus.
When Should I Get an Ultrasound?
If you think you may be pregnant or have recently taken a positive, at-home pregnancy test, we recommend scheduling an appointment at your local pregnancy clinic to confirm your pregnancy. At your appointment, you’ll first take a lab-quality pregnancy test and talk to your nurse about the results. Once there is evidence of a pregnancy, you’ll be eligible for a free ultrasound.
Your first ultrasound will be scheduled between 6 and 8 weeks, which is often when many women learn they are pregnant. While ultrasounds are a simple procedure, they’re extremely crucial in learning important details about your pregnancy.
If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and are considering termination, your ultrasound will provide you with information that will help you determine what type of abortion you would be eligible for.
Where can I find a free ultrasound near me?
Finding affordable, quality healthcare can be difficult, which is why The Hope Clinic offers pregnancy health services at no cost to you, including pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, STD testing and more!