First Trimester Ultrasounds

We offer limited first trimester ultrasounds. During the ultrasound, we can determine how far along you are in your pregnancy, verify the location of the pregnancy (in the uterus vs. ectopic) and confirm the viability of the pregnancy (whether or not there is a miscarriage).

This ultrasound is usually performed at about 8-10 weeks.

What is an ectopic pregnancy?

In a normal pregnancy, your ovary releases an egg into your fallopian tube. If the sperm meets the egg, the fertilized egg moves into your uterus to attach to the lining and continues to grow for the next 9 months. However, in about 1 of 50 pregnancies, the fertilized egg stays in the fallopian tube, resulting in an ectopic (or tubal) pregnancy

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Ectopic pregnancies require immediate medical care.

Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include:

  • Brown vaginal spotting or light bleeding that can be occasional or continuous.
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sharp, crampy pain with tenderness in the lower abdomen. Pain begins as a dull ache on one side and can spread throughout the abdomen. Pain can worsen with straining of bowels, coughing, or moving.
  • Pain on one side of your body
  • Dizziness or weakness
  • Pain in your shoulder, neck, or rectum

If the fallopian tube ruptures, the woman will experience severe pain and bleeding, which can cause fainting. If you are experiencing the symptoms listed above, seek immediate medical attention and go to the emergency room.

I’m planning on getting an abortion. Do I need an ultrasound?

If you plan on getting an abortion, an ultrasound is necessary to determine the location of the pregnancy, how many weeks you are pregnant (how far along you are will determine what abortion options are available to you), and if the pregnancy is viable. Miscarriage happens in approximately 25% of all pregnancies. If you are miscarrying naturally, it would not be necessary to undergo an elective abortion procedure. Our medical providers can determine if you are miscarrying naturally or have an ectopic pregnancy and provide care accordingly.