What Are the Benefits of Getting an Ultrasound Early in Pregnancy?

If you’ve recently received a positive pregnancy test, you may be wondering what’s next and whether you should get an ultrasound. Getting an ultrasound early in pregnancy provides important information about how the pregnancy is developing.

An ultrasound can often be performed as soon as you have a positive pregnancy test result. A gestational sac may be visible as early as five weeks, while a fetal heartbeat may be detected from around six weeks.

HeartReach Center provides no-cost pregnancy testing and limited obstetric ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy. We are here to offer you safe and supportive care throughout your pregnancy. 

Schedule an appointment at the center today.

An Ultrasound Provides More Information Than a Pregnancy Test

A pregnancy test only confirms the presence of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). 

An early ultrasound, however, gives a clearer picture of your pregnancy and provides important medical details that can impact your next steps, including the pregnancy’s location, gestational age, and whether the pregnancy appears to be developing.

1. Tells You How Far Along You Are 

You may have already tried to estimate how far along you are based on your last period; however, this can be inaccurate, especially if you have irregular menstrual cycles.

Knowing your gestational age is important because it shapes your next steps and provides an estimated due date. 

2. Shows the Pregnancy Location

In some pregnancies, the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency and cannot develop normally; without timely medical attention, it can lead to complications such as internal bleeding.

This is one reason an ultrasound is an important part of early pregnancy care.

3. Checks for Viability

It is estimated that 10 to 20% of pregnancies end naturally in a miscarriage. A pregnancy test can remain positive even after a loss, due to residual hCG levels in the body. 

An early ultrasound can determine whether the pregnancy is progressing by detecting a fetal heartbeat. If you have miscarried, your healthcare provider can discuss any follow-up care that may be needed.

We Are Here to Help

HeartReach Center is proud to offer no-cost pregnancy services such as pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and STD testing so that you can have all the key medical information you need to protect your health. 

After confirming your pregnancy, we will provide you with accurate information about your options in a compassionate, non-judgmental environment, with space to ask questions and express any concerns. 

If you can’t get to us, we offer a HeartReach Center Medical Mobile Unit, available at convenient locations throughout the Mat-Su Valley. Check our upcoming locations here.

No matter your circumstances, you do not have to navigate this pregnancy alone. Contact us to make an appointment with our caring team.