After a positive pregnancy test, you’ll want to have an ultrasound performed to medically confirm your pregnancy. Dakota Hope Clinic offers free and confidential limited ultrasounds after a positive pregnancy test at our center. If you are pregnant, we can confirm that you have a viable pregnancy and tell you how far along you are in your pregnancy.
*Note that our ultrasounds do not verify the sex of your baby or diagnose any medical conditions or abnormalities.
What is an ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a method used to detect the viability of a pregnancy using high-frequency soundwaves. Viability refers to whether the pregnancy is developing in the uterus and whether a fetal heartbeat can be detected. If the pregnancy is developing outside of the uterus, perhaps in the fallopian tubes, this is called an ectopic pregnancy and requires immediate medical attention. If no fetal heartbeat is detected, your pregnancy could end in miscarriage. About 10 to 20 percent of all known pregnancies end in miscarriage. If this is a possible scenario for you, we will refer you to a local OBGYN for next steps.
Why should I get an ultrasound?
An ultrasound is the only way to confirm that you are actually pregnant. Having an ultrasound performed can determine how far along you are in your pregnancy. Knowing how many weeks you have been pregnant is important if you are considering an abortion, as the type of procedure available to you is determined based on this information.
Proof of pregnancy from an ultrasound appointment may also be required for certain government assistance programs. You owe it to yourself to know this information before considering your options.
What are my next steps?
Once you have had an ultrasound and know how far along you are, it’s time to start discussing your options. Even if you think you know what you want to do with your pregnancy, learning about each option can lead to a better understanding of your choices and how each choice would impact your life. Dakota Hope Clinic is here to help you make choices for a bright future. We offer pregnancy options education, where we can discuss each option with you and answer any questions you may have along the way. Make your appointment today!