Ultrasound
After a positive pregnancy test, getting an ultrasound is often an important next step. Our limited ultrasounds will check the following three things:
- That the pregnancy is in the uterus (as opposed to an ectopic pregnancy)
- That the pregnancy is viable (has a heartbeat)
- The measurements of the fetus to help determine how far along the pregnancy is
An ultrasound is an important way to date your pregnancy, which is crucial to knowing what choices and procedures are available to you now, so you can make an informed decision.
- It is particularly important to have an ultrasound if you are considering a termination, in order to rule out an ectopic pregnancy. About 2% of pregnancies implant in the fallopian tubes, where the embryo cannot safely continue to develop. Without medical intervention, this can be life-threatening to the woman.
- Furthermore, 20-25% of pregnancies end as a miscarriage. An ultrasound can determine if the pregnancy is viable or if you should seek medical care due to the possibility of a miscarriage.
- We can provide a limited obstetrical ultrasound for these purposes if you have already had a positive pregnancy test at the Center. To schedule an ultrasound, it must be at least 6-8 weeks since the first day of your last menstrual cycle.
All of our ultrasounds are free of charge, however the first step to getting an ultrasound is to make a pregnancy test appointment. Once we obtain a positive pregnancy test here at Blue Ridge Women's Center, an ultrasound appointment will be made available to you.
If you have already had a positive pregnancy test at Blue Ridge Women’s Center for this pregnancy and would like to make an ultrasound appointment, please call 540-362-4357.