If you’ve recently received a positive pregnancy test, you may feel both curious and uncertain about what comes next. One of the most important early steps is receiving an ultrasound. This scan provides essential details about your health and pregnancy, giving you the clarity you need as you consider your next steps.
At Lakes Life Care Center, we provide no-cost and confidential ultrasounds in a compassionate environment. Schedule your appointment today to begin the process and find peace of mind.
How an Ultrasound Works
Learning how an ultrasound works as you prepare for your appointment is a crucial first step. An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of your body’s internal structures. A trained nurse or sonographer guides a small device called a transducer either across your abdomen or, in early pregnancy, gently inserts it into the vagina to provide clearer images.
These sound waves bounce off structures inside your body, forming real-time pictures on a screen. As the images appear, the professional will explain what is being observed so you can better understand what’s happening with your pregnancy.
No special preparation is needed for an ultrasound, but you may be asked to arrive at your appointment with a full bladder, which typically offers clearer images.
What the Scan Can Reveal
Ultrasound provides information that a pregnancy test cannot. During your first scan, you can expect to learn:
- Viability: Whether the pregnancy is developing normally and if there is a heartbeat. This is important since up to 26% of pregnancies naturally end in miscarriage.
- Gestational Age: How far along you are. This helps determine what options are available and provides valuable information for next steps in care. For example, medical abortion is FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation only.
- Location: Whether the pregnancy is in the uterus. Rarely, a pregnancy can develop outside the uterus (ectopic pregnancy), which requires immediate medical attention.
These details not only confirm your pregnancy but also protect your health.
Why This Step Matters
While a home pregnancy test can give an initial answer, it does not provide the full picture. An ultrasound helps you understand your pregnancy in greater detail and equips you to make informed choices moving forward.
Support at Every Step
At Lakes Life Care Center, we support you with confidential services and accurate information. If your test is positive at the center, we’ll determine your eligibility for an ultrasound and walk you through the process. You’ll have space to ask questions, talk through your concerns, and leave with more clarity.
Schedule your no-cost, confidential appointment today. You don’t have to walk through this alone—we’re here for you.
FAQ:
When should I get my first ultrasound?
Typically, ultrasounds are recommended soon after a positive pregnancy test to confirm details like gestational age and viability. Most women tend to have them around seven or eight weeks of pregnancy, while others may receive this scan closer to twelve weeks.
Does an ultrasound hurt?
No. Ultrasounds are non-invasive and safe. Some may feel uncomfortable if an internal scan is needed, but it should not be painful.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. You’re welcome to bring a partner, family member, or friend for support during your appointment.
Why isn’t a pregnancy test enough?
Pregnancy tests only detect the presence of hCG, a hormone produced during pregnancy. They cannot confirm miscarriage, detect an ectopic pregnancy, or determine how far along you are.
Does Lakes Life Care Center provide abortions?
No. Lakes Life Care Center does not provide or refer for abortions. We do provide no-cost and confidential pregnancy tests, ultrasounds for qualifying clients, and options information so you can make educated decisions.