The Role of Ultrasound in Prenatal Diagnosis
The role of ultrasounds in prenatal diagnosis is vital to understanding the health of your pregnancy and what options you are eligible for. An ultrasound alerts you to any possible pregnancy complications so you can get the pregnancy care you need.
Why is Prenatal Diagnosis Important?
The NIH shares that early prenatal visits improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy. If you think you’re pregnant, schedule a visit to your healthcare provider to start prenatal care. Most prenatal visits include:
- A physical exam
- Weight checks
- A urine sample
Depending on your stage of pregnancy, you may undergo blood and imaging tests, including an ultrasound exam. Prenatal visits also include discussions about the mother’s health, the pregnancy’s health, and other questions regarding the pregnancy.
How Does An Ultrasound Work?
An ultrasound incorporates high-frequency sound waves to detect images of your uterus and pregnancy. A gel reduces static between your skin and the transducer (the sensing device) to get a clear picture.
Your first ultrasound is typically done during the first trimester to confirm pregnancy details and health. If there is a potential complication, additional ultrasounds and MRIs will be recommended.
Confirm Pregnancy Details
An ultrasound gives you much-needed clarity about the growth and development of your pregnancy. An ultrasound can evaluate potential problems and help confirm a diagnosis as well. The top three things an ultrasound does are:
- Reveals the gestational age (how far along you are)
- Shows the location of the pregnancy (whether the pregnancy is growing within the uterus)
- Confirms viability (if the pregnancy has a heartbeat)
Schedule a free pregnancy appointment at Women’s Care Medical Center to get more clarity about your unique pregnancy. You are not alone.
Pregnancy Testing
Even if you’ve taken a home pregnancy test, you should verify the results. We provide confidential, no-cost pregnancy testing to help you receive the answers you need.
Ultrasounds
A positive pregnancy test isn’t enough information to make an informed decision. An ultrasound scan can determine how far along you are, the pregnancy’s location, and if it’s viable.
STD Testing
Before making a decision about your unplanned pregnancy, it’s important to know if you have an STD. Take control of your health, get tested today, and receive the peace of mind you deserve!
Pregnancy Testing
Even if you’ve taken a home pregnancy test, you should verify the results. We provide confidential, no-cost pregnancy testing to help you receive the answers you need.
Ultrasounds
A positive pregnancy test isn’t enough information to make an informed decision. An ultrasound scan can determine how far along you are, the pregnancy’s location, and if it’s viable.
STD Testing
Before making a decision about your unplanned pregnancy, it’s important to know if you have an STD. Take control of your health, get tested today, and receive the peace of mind you deserve!
