A positive pregnancy test tells you one thing: the pregnancy hormone HCG is present. It cannot tell you where the pregnancy is located, how far along you are, or whether the pregnancy is progressing.
Those are important medical details to understand before making any pregnancy decision because they can affect both your health and the care you may need.
Life Choices Family Resource Center offers professional-grade pregnancy testing and ultrasounds at no cost. Our services are confidential and designed to provide you with the information that a pregnancy test alone cannot.
Reach out to schedule a visit today.
Confirm the Pregnancy Is Located in the Uterus
One of the first things an ultrasound checks is the location of the pregnancy.
Most pregnancies develop inside the uterus. Occasionally, however, a pregnancy implants outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. This is called an ectopic pregnancy.
An ectopic pregnancy requires immediate medical attention because it can cause the fallopian tube to rupture, leading to life-threatening internal bleeding if left untreated. Since early symptoms often resemble those of a normal pregnancy, an ultrasound is the most reliable way to identify the pregnancy’s location.
Learn How Far Along You Are
Many women estimate how far along they are based on the first day of their last menstrual period. While that estimate is helpful, it isn’t always accurate, especially if your menstrual cycles are irregular.
An ultrasound provides a more reliable estimate of gestational age. Knowing how far along you are gives you a clearer understanding of your pregnancy and can help you understand your options.
Find Out Whether the Pregnancy Is Progressing
A positive pregnancy test confirms that HCG is present, but it does not confirm that the pregnancy is continuing.
According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately 20% of known pregnancies end in miscarriage. Because HCG can remain in the body for days or even weeks after a pregnancy loss, a positive pregnancy test does not always indicate an ongoing pregnancy.
An ultrasound can determine whether the pregnancy is progressing. If a miscarriage has already occurred, a healthcare provider can determine whether any additional medical care is needed.
Start With the Medical Information You Need
If you’re looking for answers about your pregnancy, schedule a free, confidential appointment at Life Choices FRC. If your pregnancy test is positive, you may qualify for an ultrasound free of charge to learn more about your pregnancy before making any decisions.
Call (970) 249-4302 or schedule your appointment online today.