If you recently received a negative result on your at-home pregnancy test but are still having early pregnancy symptoms, there’s a chance that:
- You’re pregnant but took the pregnancy test too early for hCG levels to be detected
- You’re experiencing a health condition that mimics early pregnancy symptoms
The only way to gain clarity about what’s going on is to get an ultrasound. This simple scan will give you the answers you need right now.
This article will highlight the essentials you need to know about ultrasound. However, if you’re looking to talk to someone in person, contact Turlock Pregnancy and Health Center.
How Does an Ultrasound Work?
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image of your internal structures. If you are pregnant, ultrasound is a low-risk option since it doesn’t use radiation, like X-rays or CT scans.
If you’re having pregnancy symptoms (especially a missed period) but are still testing negative, an ultrasound is used to rule out or confirm pregnancy. During this type of ultrasound, a transducer (the wand-like part of the ultrasound machine that emits the sound waves) is moved along the abdomen.
The healthcare professional who’s conducting the scan will look at the uterus to determine if a pregnancy is present. If so, the ultrasound will help determine the:
- Gestational age: This is essential in order to know what options are available. For example, medication abortion (also known as the “abortion pill”) is only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is 10 weeks gestation or under.
- Viability: This means that your pregnancy has signs of life, like a heartbeat. This is important since 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage. And if you’ve had one, you’ll need medical follow-up to ensure you don’t face complications.
- Location: Typically, a pregnancy develops inside your uterus. However, sometimes, a pregnancy will attach and grow outside your uterus. This is dangerous and needs immediate medical intervention.
Next Steps
Wondering if you might be pregnant is an overwhelming space to be in. However, you’re not alone in this. We’re here for you. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.