How Does an Ultrasound Work?

An ultrasound is a procedure that uses sound waves to create images of the inside of your body. For pregnant women, ultrasounds are especially important because they provide key insights about the health and safety of both the mother and the baby.

Are you looking for a free ultrasound? Do you want to discuss your pregnancy with someone in person? Contact Choices Options for Women today to schedule a free, confidential appointment with our compassionate medical team.

Types of Ultrasounds

There are two main types of ultrasounds during pregnancy: transvaginal and abdominal. Both use a device called a transducer to send sound waves into the body and capture images.

Transvaginal ultrasound: The transducer is inserted into the vagina to capture detailed images, often used early in pregnancy.
Abdominal ultrasound: The transducer is moved over your belly to create images of the pregnancy.

At your ultrasound appointment, a sonographer will use one of these methods to check important details about your pregnancy, such as its location and whether there is a detectable heartbeat. You'll typically be able to see the images on the screen during the procedure.

Key Details of Your Pregnancy

Ultrasounds provide critical information about your pregnancy to ensure your safety and well-being. They can reveal:

The location of the pregnancy: Ensuring the pregnancy is in the uterus helps rule out an ectopic pregnancy, a potentially life-threatening condition where the pregnancy develops outside the uterus.
Gestational age: Knowing how far along you are is essential for planning your next steps. For instance, the abortion pill is only approved for use up to 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Pregnancy viability: About 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. An ultrasound can confirm a heartbeat and help determine whether the pregnancy is progressing as expected.

Get Free Pregnancy Services

Choices Options for Women offers free pregnancy services, including pregnancy testing and ultrasound. These services provide the vital details you need to make informed decisions about your pregnancy.