“My world stopped when I found out I was pregnant.”
We understand that a positive result on a pregnancy test can feel paralyzing. But you are not alone. We are here to help walk you through your next steps, the first of which is an ultrasound. At Ivy Women’s Center in Mentor, we offer limited obstetrical ultrasounds, also known as sonograms, at no cost to you.
How Do Pregnancy Ultrasounds Work?
Ultrasound involves using high-frequency sound waves to reveal images of your uterus and the fetus. Your first ultrasound should be done during your first trimester to confirm your pregnancy. An ultrasound will reveal three important factors of your pregnancy:
- The gestational age (how far along you are)
- The location of the pregnancy (if it’s within your uterus or not)
- Verifies whether or not your body is accepting the pregnancy
If My Pregnancy Test Is Positive, Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?
While a pregnancy test may indicate that you are pregnant, there is additional information that you will need before deciding what’s next. If pregnancy is ectopic, meaning the embryo implants outside of the uterus, it will not result in a live birth. Because it can also be potentially life-threatening to the woman, it is important to identify an ectopic pregnancy as early as possible. This can be done during the ultrasound.
Another reason for an ultrasound is to date the pregnancy. If you are considering an abortion, dating the pregnancy is necessary to determine what procedures are available to you.
An obstetrical ultrasound is the only way to accurately reveal the location and gestational age of the pregnancy.
Our medical staff will review the results of your ultrasound, answer any questions, and provide you with the knowledge you need to make a fully informed choice about your pregnancy. A follow-up review of your ultrasound will also be done by our licensed physician.
What Should I Do After My Ultrasound?
Our staff at Ivy Women’s Center is here for you. After your positive pregnancy test and ultrasound, we will go over all of your options with you. We’ll answer all of your questions and address any concerns you may have so that you will feel empowered to make your own informed pregnancy choice.
The first step is to contact us for a free pregnancy testing appointment. If your pregnancy is confirmed, our team will then schedule an ultrasound appointment.
FAQs About Limited Pregnancy Ultrasounds
When should I get an ultrasound during early pregnancy?
An ultrasound is typically performed during the first trimester after a positive pregnancy test. This helps confirm important medical details early on. If you’re unsure when to schedule one, our licensed medical team can help determine appropriate timing based on your situation.
What can an ultrasound tell me that a pregnancy test cannot?
A pregnancy test detects pregnancy hormones, but it does not show what is happening inside the uterus. A limited obstetric ultrasound can confirm the location of the pregnancy, estimate how far along you are, and identify certain early medical concerns. This information provides greater clarity before making any decisions.
Is a limited ultrasound safe?
Yes. Obstetric ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves, not radiation, to create images. They are widely used in medical settings and are considered safe during early pregnancy when performed by trained professionals.
Who performs ultrasounds at Ivy Women’s Center?
Limited obstetric ultrasounds are performed by trained medical staff, and results are reviewed by a licensed physician. Your appointment takes place in a professional medical setting in Mentor, serving women across Northeast Ohio.
How much does an ultrasound cost?
Ultrasounds at Ivy Women’s Center are provided at no cost. All services are confidential, and appointments are recommended to ensure privacy and dedicated time with our team.