What Is an Ultrasound?
Ultrasound technology uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the uterus and a developing pregnancy. It does not use radiation. A qualified medical provider performs the scan and interprets the images.
Acts of Hope Pregnancy Resource Center is non-medical and does not perform ultrasounds. After a free pregnancy test at our Blytheville center, a mentor can explain whether a referral may be available based on your needs, the provider’s requirements, and current scheduling.
How Might the Ultrasound Be Performed?
The medical provider will determine which type of ultrasound is appropriate.
During an abdominal ultrasound, gel is applied to the lower abdomen and a handheld transducer is moved across the skin. Providers commonly use this method after about 12 weeks, when the pregnancy is generally easier to see through the abdominal wall.
A transvaginal ultrasound uses a thin ultrasound wand called a transducer. The provider places a protective cover and gel on the wand before inserting it into the vagina. This method is commonly used during the first trimester, particularly before 12 weeks, because it provides a closer and more detailed view of the uterus.
Preparation differs between providers and scan types. One provider may ask you to arrive with a full bladder, while another may ask you to empty it. Follow the instructions given by the office performing your ultrasound.
What May a Provider Look For?
An early pregnancy ultrasound may provide information about:
Gestational age
Measurements taken during the scan may estimate how far along the pregnancy is and provide an approximate due date. This can be useful when menstrual cycles are irregular or the date of the last period is uncertain.
Pregnancy location
The provider will look for signs that the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus. If the pregnancy is not visible where expected, additional testing may be needed.
Viability
In early pregnancy, viability refers to whether the pregnancy appears to be progressing at the time of the scan. Fetal cardiac activity can often be detected around the sixth week, and its presence is one sign of an ongoing pregnancy. If cardiac activity is not visible, the pregnancy may be earlier than estimated or may not be developing. A medical provider may repeat the ultrasound or order blood tests that measure changes in hCG before making a determination.
Why Pregnancy Location Matters
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy cannot be treated with abortion drugs and cannot continue normally, causing life-threatening internal bleeding via tubal rupture.
A medical provider may consider ultrasound findings, hCG levels, symptoms, and medical history when evaluating a possible ectopic pregnancy. Acts of Hope PRC cannot diagnose or rule out this condition.
Do not wait for a referral if you have severe or one-sided abdominal or pelvic pain, shoulder pain, fainting, dizziness, or heavy bleeding. Seek emergency medical care.
How Does an Ultrasound Referral Work?
Begin with a free pregnancy test at Acts of Hope PRC. If you qualify, our team may be able to connect you with a local medical provider.
The outside provider determines referral qualifications, appointment availability, costs, the type of scan performed, and any follow-up care. A referral does not guarantee an appointment or replace care from a licensed medical provider.
Ask About Available Referrals
Contact Acts of Hope PRC to schedule a no-cost, confidential pregnancy test or ask us about current ultrasound referral options.
