Seeing a positive pregnancy test can leave you with more questions than answers. Before making any decision about your pregnancy, it’s important to gather accurate medical information.

While a home pregnancy test can indicate pregnancy, it doesn’t tell you everything you need to know. At Ventura County Pregnancy Center, we provide pregnancy tests and ultrasounds at no cost to help you better understand your pregnancy in a caring, confidential environment.

Schedule your free appointment today to take your next step, and keep reading to learn why receiving an ultrasound is crucial to the decision-making process.

1. It Can Confirm Important Pregnancy Details

A positive pregnancy test detects the hormone hCG, but it cannot confirm whether the pregnancy is progressing.

An ultrasound can provide additional information about whether the pregnancy is developing and has a heartbeat. Miscarriage can occur in as many as 26% of all pregnancies, and if your pregnancy has ended, you may require medical follow-up to prevent complications.

2. It Can Identify Where the Pregnancy Is Located

Most pregnancies develop inside the uterus, but in some cases, a pregnancy implants outside the uterus. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy, which requires immediate medical attention because it can become life-threatening if left untreated.

A pregnancy test cannot determine the location of a pregnancy. An ultrasound can help identify this detail so you have a clearer understanding of your health before making any decisions.

3. It Can Help Determine Gestational Age

Knowing how far along you are is another important part of understanding your pregnancy. Estimating based on your last menstrual period isn’t always accurate, especially if your cycle is irregular.

An ultrasound provides a more reliable estimate of gestational age, giving you valuable information as you learn about your options. For example, medical abortion is FDA-approved only through 10 weeks of gestation. Taking abortion drugs beyond that timeframe is not recommended, as it poses additional risks to your health and safety.

We’re Here to Support You

An unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Before moving forward, take time to gather the medical information you deserve.

Ventura County Pregnancy Center is here to answer your questions and help you understand your pregnancy through pregnancy testing and an on-site ultrasound so you can make an informed decision.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and speak with our caring team.

Ventura County Pregnancy Center does not provide or refer for abortions. 

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.