Discovering you’re pregnant can bring a whirlwind of emotions – joy, fear, confusion, and everything in between. Whether the pregnancy was planned or unexpected, one of the most important steps you can take before making any decision is getting an ultrasound. While it may seem like just another medical appointment, an ultrasound provides critical information that can significantly impact your options and choices.
What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive imaging procedure that uses sound waves to create a picture of what’s happening inside your body. In the case of pregnancy, it gives you and your healthcare provider a real-time view of your uterus and the developing embryo or fetus.
Confirm the Pregnancy Is Viable
One of the first things an ultrasound does is determine whether the pregnancy is viable—that is, progressing as expected. It can detect whether the embryo has a heartbeat and is developing in the uterus. About 10-20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage, often in the first trimester. If the pregnancy is not viable, it may eliminate the need for a decision about continuing or ending it.
Determine How Far Along You Are
Many decisions surrounding pregnancy—especially medical or surgical abortion—depend heavily on how far along the pregnancy is. An ultrasound gives an accurate gestational age based on the size and development of the embryo or fetus. This helps:
- Ensure that you are within the legal timeframe for certain abortion methods.
- Provide better information for parenting or adoption planning.
- Guide medical professionals in offering the safest care options.
Rule Out an Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube. This condition is not only non-viable but potentially life-threatening. An ultrasound can identify an ectopic pregnancy early, allowing for immediate medical intervention. Without it, an ectopic pregnancy could be mistaken for a normal one, leading to dangerous complications.
Understand Your Options More Clearly
Having complete and accurate medical information empowers you to make the best decision for your health and your future. Whether you’re considering parenting, adoption, or abortion, an ultrasound provides essential facts that can make your next steps clearer and more informed.
Access to Compassionate Support
APS Medical offers free ultrasounds along with counseling or support services. This gives you a safe, non-judgmental space to process your options, ask questions, and connect with resources—no matter what decision you make.
What Now?
Facing a pregnancy decision is deeply personal, and no one should have to navigate it without the right tools and support. An ultrasound is more than a medical procedure; it’s a foundational step in making an informed, empowered decision about your health and your future. If you think you may be pregnant, consider scheduling an ultrasound as soon as possible—it could make all the difference. APS Medical offers free and confidential ultrasounds so that you can make a decision with clarity.