Should I Get an Early Pregnancy Ultrasound?

Facing an unexpected pregnancy can be incredibly overwhelming.

There are many emotions, questions, and concerns to process.

If you are experiencing an unintended pregnancy, you may be wondering whether you should get an early ultrasound.

At our center, we offer free ultrasounds to help women gain crucial medical insight as they consider their pregnancy options.

When Should Women Get Their First Ultrasound in Pregnancy

The timing of an initial pregnancy ultrasound depends on individual factors. Most doctors typically perform the first pregnancy scan around 12 weeks (though anywhere between 10–14 weeks is not uncommon).

Clinical Reasons for Scheduling an Early Pregnancy Ultrasound with Your OBGYN

Some factors that may necessitate an early ultrasound include:

• Evaluation symptoms such as pain or bleeding
• Suspected multiple pregnancy
• Previous history of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
• Confirming pregnancy after fertility treatments

These factors are best assessed by your prenatal care provider.

Medical Reasons to Get an Early Ultrasound Before Choosing Abortion 

If you’re trying to decide how to proceed, knowing these key details about your pregnancy can be incredibly helpful:
 

• Confirming Viability: About 10-20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, often in the early weeks. An ultrasound can determine if the pregnancy is developing properly and has a detectable heartbeat. 
• Determining Gestational Age: The stage of pregnancy can impact available options. Ultrasounds provide an accurate measurement of how far along you are. 
• Checking Pregnancy Location: In rare cases, a pregnancy may develop outside the uterus (such as an ectopic pregnancy), which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

 

Our Free Ultrasound Services

If you're navigating an unexpected pregnancy and feeling uncertain about what to do next, you're not alone. We're here to support you. At PRC of Tracy, we offer free and confidential ultrasounds in a safe, caring, and judgment-free environment. Our goal is to equip you with the information you need to make an informed and empowered choice for your future.

Contact us today to get started with scheduling an appointment.

Sources for this post:

Methods for Estimating the Due Date
Sonography 1st Trimester Assessment, Protocols, and Interpretation
Pregnancy Ultrasound Evaluation