If you’ve taken a home pregnancy test and the result was positive, you may be feeling a mix of emotions – perhaps fear, confusion or uncertainty. Getting more information can help calm your emotions and give some clarity – an ultrasound offers more details which makes it an important next step.
The Difference Between Pregnancy Tests and Ultrasounds
Pregnancy tests are designed to detect a pregnancy hormone in your urine (or blood) called hCG. But the presence of this hormone alone does not give you the whole picture. An ultrasound will provide more information by answering several important questions:
- Is the pregnancy located in the right place?
- Is the pregnancy viable? (Does it have a heartbeat?)
- How many weeks old is the pregnancy?
Continue reading to understand why you need to have these 3 questions answered.
1. Is the pregnancy located in the right place?
A pregnancy normally develops in the uterus. A pear-shaped organ, the uterus consists of 3 layers. The outer layer is a thin membrane, the middle layer is made of smooth muscle and the inner layer is a made of tissues that provide protection and nutrients to the growing pregnancy. This is the same lining that is shed in the form of your period each month when you are not pregnant.
In rare cases, the pregnancy implants and begins to develop outside the uterus – most often in a fallopian tube. When this occurs, its called an ectopic pregnancy and requires urgent medical attention. An early pregnancy ultrasound can confirm the pregnancy is growing in the right place: in the uterus.
2. Is the pregnancy viable?
Sometimes a pregnancy test is positive, but the pregnancy itself is not developing as it should. Studies show that 10-20% of known pregnancies end naturally in miscarriage. Your body may be producing the hCG hormone initially giving a positive test result, but the pregnancy may not progress.
Early pregnancy ultrasounds can detect a heartbeat as early as 5 ½ weeks gestation. Establishing a heartbeat indicates the pregnancy is growing and progressing as it should.
3. How many weeks old is the pregnancy?
Accurate dating matters when it comes to pregnancy. Knowing how far along you are can ensure that any pregnancy symptoms you’re experiencing are normal. It can also help you assess your pregnancy options and next steps since many medical decisions rely on gestational age.
Sometimes, women do not know the date of their last period. If a patient has irregular cycles or spotting between periods that can add to the confusion. An ultrasound can tell a medical professional the exact age of the pregnancy, due date, and date of conception.
Understanding Your Options
An ultrasound can help you understand your pregnancy options. At Jewel Women’s Center, we offer free and confidential appointments that include:
- Pregnancy test
- Ultrasound
- Options consultation
- Meeting with Our registered nurse
Jewel Women’s Center does not perform nor make referrals for abortion, but we are committed to providing a safe space to collect the information you need to make the best decision for you.
Schedule an Ultrasound Today
A positive pregnancy test is just the first step. An ultrasound offers clarity, safety, and assurance, serving as the next step of your journey. You do not have to face things alone. Contact us to schedule a confidential ultrasound appointment today.