How Does an Ultrasound Work?
Although ultrasounds are used for many important medical purposes, one of the most common uses of ultrasound is to monitor the growth and development of a pregnancy.
If you are facing an unplanned pregnancy and are trying to gather more details, an ultrasound is a great place to start because it can tell you:
The gestational age
The location of the pregnancy
Whether or not the pregnancy is viable or progressing
These vital pieces of information can help inform you of your pregnancy health and abortion eligibility.
What Is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound scan is an imaging technology that uses soundwaves to form an image of a particular area inside the patient’s body. For pregnancy, it is used to form an image of the inside of the uterus. The picture the ultrasound creates is called a sonogram, and the healthcare professional who conducts an ultrasound is called a sonographer.
How do Ultrasounds Work?
Sonographers use a tool called a transducer to form a digital image. This tool sends and receives high-frequency soundwaves which will travel through the body until they reach bone or tissue. The sound waves will travel through soft tissue and fluids, but will bounce off bones and denser tissue. The soundwaves that bounce back create echoes and form an image in real-time.
Are Ultrasounds Safe?
Ultrasounds expose you and the fetus to sound waves, not radiation like an X-ray does. This technology has been used for over 20 years. According to the FDA, it is generally safe when appropriately used by healthcare workers.
Where Can I Get an Ultrasound?
If you are interested in taking this next step, we offer free limited obstetric ultrasounds at our center! Our trained staff will conduct the ultrasound and provide critical pregnancy details to inform you about your health.
At Zoe, A Women’s Center, we offer a safe space where you can learn and ask questions in a compassionate, pressure-free environment. We are here to support you and provide evidence-based education about the pregnancy process so you can feel empowered to make the best decision. Contact us today!