Ultrasound technology was developed in the 1950s, making it a relatively new development in maternal health. Because of this technology, women can now receive routine screening and treatment to improve health outcomes.
Below, we will cover the basics of ultrasound technology and explain why it matters.
How Does Ultrasound Technology Work?
Ultrasound technology uses high-frequency sound waves to form a picture of the inside of your uterus. It’s considered a non-invasive imaging test.
During an ultrasound scan, a healthcare provider uses a device called a transducer or probe to convert electrical signals into high-frequency sound waves that penetrate the woman’s body tissue.
Typically, the healthcare provider will spread a gel over the woman’s abdomen or onto the transducer (in the case of a transvaginal ultrasound) to eliminate the air between the transducer and the woman’s skin.
The transducer will then be slid over the woman’s abdomen or inserted into the vagina (for very early pregnancies). As the transducer sends the sound waves into the body, they will bounce off the structures in the body and back to the transducer.
The transducer then converts the soundwaves into electrical signals, which a computer then converts into real-time images or videos that the woman and her healthcare provider can see on a screen.
How Many Ultrasounds Do Women Have During Pregnancy?
Typically, women will receive two ultrasounds during pregnancy.Â
The first one happens around eight to twelve weeks and confirms the pregnancy by detecting a heartbeat, determining the gestational age (how far along you are), and identifying the location of your pregnancy.
For women who want to carry their pregnancies to term, the second ultrasound happens around twenty weeks. This scan is an anatomy ultrasound. It will identify the baby’s sex and review the baby’s development.
If there are no issues, that may be the last ultrasound a woman will receive during pregnancy. If a complication arises, there may be more ultrasounds.
Do I Need an Ultrasound if I’m Considering Abortion?
Yes, if you are considering an abortion, you should still get an ultrasound to understand your basic pregnancy details and protect your health.
Knowing how far along you are will determine your available abortion options, and it will look for miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy, which could require treatment.
Where Can I Receive a No-Cost Ultrasound?
Visit HOPE Pregnancy Center in Philadelphia for a no-cost ultrasound. We offer free pregnancy confirmation to ensure you can protect your health and safety and understand all your choices.
We are here to assist and support you during your pregnancy and beyond.