A positive pregnancy test is only the beginning. A limited obstetric ultrasound can provide more information about how far along you are, where the pregnancy is located, and whether the pregnancy appears to be progressing.
What Is a Limited Obstetric Ultrasound?
An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of structures inside your body. At Bloom, limited obstetric ultrasounds are used to gather specific information about an early pregnancy. They are not intended to replace ongoing prenatal care or diagnose every medical condition.
What Can an Ultrasound Tell You?
A positive pregnancy test detects the pregnancy hormone hCG, but it cannot provide details about the pregnancy itself. A limited obstetric ultrasound can help determine:
- Gestational age: Measurements taken during the scan can estimate how far along you are.
- Pregnancy location: The scan can identify whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus. A pregnancy developing outside the uterus may be ectopic and requires medical attention.
- Pregnancy viability: Miscarriage is common, affecting an estimated 1 in 4 women. An ultrasound can look for signs that the pregnancy is continuing, including cardiac activity when detectable.
This information may affect what happens next, especially if you are considering abortion or the abortion pill.
Do I Qualify for an Ultrasound?
A positive pregnancy test at Bloom may be the first step toward receiving a no-cost ultrasound. Eligibility depends on your test result, estimated gestational age, symptoms, and other medical criteria.
Our medical staff will explain whether an ultrasound is recommended based on your circumstances.
What Should I Expect?
Your medical staff member will explain the scan and give you an opportunity to ask questions. Afterward, the available results will be reviewed with you so you can understand what was observed and whether additional medical care is recommended.
Bloom provides confidential, no-cost pregnancy testing and limited obstetric ultrasounds in Richmond and Midlothian.
Schedule a professional-grade pregnancy test today and find out whether you qualify for a limited obstetric ultrasound.
