An ultrasound scan creates a picture of the inside of your uterus and surrounding structures using sound waves, and it helps both confirm the pregnancy and diagnose possible complications. 

While some women may be fearful of ultrasounds, they are simple scans for you and your pregnancy.

While ultrasounds provide a variety of helpful information, three of the major details confirmed by ultrasounds are the viability, age, and location of the pregnancy. Each of these factors plays a role in determining your pregnancy options. 

Viability

Before deciding how to proceed, an ultrasound should be used to confirm your pregnancy. A pregnancy is considered viable if there is a detectable heartbeat. 

While this may seem shocking, up to 20% of pregnancies end in natural miscarriage. If there is no heartbeat and you have miscarried, you may need additional medical help or advice regarding the miscarriage process.

Age 

Ultrasound technology uses measurements to confirm the gestational age of the pregnancy. This detail is critical because beyond 10 weeks of pregnancy, you are no longer eligible for the abortion pill, and its use may lead to an increased risk of complications. 

Location

All pregnancies should be confirmed to have been implanted within the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a pregnancy is implanted outside the uterus and is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate medical attention. 

Abortion is not a treatment for an ectopic pregnancy.  

Get Support

If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, you may feel overwhelmed with all of the new information and not even know where to begin.

Maybe you feel pressured to make a quick decision about how to proceed, but it is critical to gather all the information you need so that you can make an informed decision that is best for your health and future. 

Salem Pregnancy Care Center is here to help you every step of the way. 

We offer free services to pregnant women, such as lab-quality pregnancy tests and limited obstetric ultrasound scans, so that you can learn more about your pregnancy’s unique details. 

Our trusted staff strives to create a safe, judgment-free environment where you feel comfortable asking questions and discussing your options. 

Contact us today for your confidential appointment and start getting the support you deserve.