Finding out you might be pregnant can bring up a lot of feelings at once. Whether you feel nervous, overwhelmed, or unsure of what to do next, one of the most important things to know is this: getting accurate information early makes a real difference.
An ultrasound is one of the most valuable steps you can take after a positive pregnancy testing result, and understanding what it actually does can help you feel more prepared.
At Next Step, we offer free pregnancy testing and, if you are eligible, a free ultrasound in a safe, confidential space. Our team is here to walk alongside you with honest information and compassionate support, no matter where you are in this process. Make an appointment today.
Sound Waves, Not Radiation
An ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of what is happening inside your body. A small handheld device called a transducer is moved over your abdomen or used transvaginally in very early pregnancy.
The sound waves travel into the body, bounce off internal structures, and send signals back to create images on a screen. Because it relies on sound rather than radiation, an ultrasound is considered safe during pregnancy.
What an Ultrasound Can Tell You
A positive pregnancy test indicates the presence of hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), but it does not provide a complete assessment of your pregnancy. An ultrasound goes further by helping to answer three critical questions:
Is the pregnancy in the uterus?
An ultrasound checks that the pregnancy is located inside the uterus and not ectopic, meaning developing outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy cannot survive and, if left untreated, may cause the fallopian tube to rupture, leading to internal bleeding and potentially life-threatening complications. Confirming the location early is essential.
How far along am I?
Gestational age can be estimated through an ultrasound. Knowing how far along you are is important as you think through your options and next steps.
Is there a heartbeat?
Viability, or whether the pregnancy is developing, can often be determined through an ultrasound by detecting a fetal heartbeat. Since miscarriage affects nearly 10 to 20% of known pregnancies, an ultrasound can help you rule out early pregnancy loss.
You Do Not Have to Figure This Out Alone
At Next Step, every woman who walks through our doors is welcomed with care, no matter what they are feeling or what questions they are carrying. Whether you come in alone or with your partner, our team is here to walk alongside you with compassion and without pressure.
Schedule your free, confidential appointment with Next Step today. We’re here to provide clear information and support you can trust.