What a Positive Test Cannot Tell You
A positive pregnancy test confirms that hCG is present, but it provides limited information about what is happening inside your body.
A limited obstetrical ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the uterus. A transducer sends these waves into the body and captures the returning echoes, allowing a computer to produce real-time images of the pregnancy. An ultrasound does not use radiation.
These images may help estimate gestational age, locate the pregnancy, and determine whether cardiac activity is present. They may also reveal concerns that need further medical evaluation or follow-up care.
What Happens During an Ultrasound?
The type of ultrasound used often depends on how far the pregnancy has progressed.
During an abdominal ultrasound, water-based gel is applied to the abdomen, and a handheld transducer is moved across the skin. Earlier in pregnancy, a transvaginal ultrasound may be used to provide a closer view of the uterus. This involves inserting a slender, wand-shaped device into the vagina.
The medical provider performing the scan will explain which method is appropriate and what can be seen.
Why Does Gestational Age Matter?
Gestational age describes how far a pregnancy has progressed. It is usually calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period, but cycle irregularity or uncertainty about dates can make that estimate less precise.
An ultrasound may use measurements of visible pregnancy structures to provide a clearer estimate. Gestational age can affect which medical care, follow-up recommendations, and pregnancy options may apply.
Is the Pregnancy Inside the Uterus?
An ultrasound may help determine whether the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy develops elsewhere, most commonly in a fallopian tube, and occurs in approximately 2% of pregnancies.
As an undetected ectopic pregnancy grows within a fallopian tube, the tube may rupture and cause life-threatening internal bleeding. Severe or one-sided abdominal pain, shoulder pain, heavy bleeding, dizziness, weakness, or fainting require immediate medical attention. Call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room for severe symptoms.
Does the Pregnancy Appear to Be Progressing?
During an early ultrasound, a medical provider evaluates visible pregnancy structures and looks for cardiac activity. Cardiac activity may be detectable at approximately six weeks, although pregnancy dates and development vary.
An early scan may provide limited findings simply because the pregnancy has not progressed far enough for particular structures to appear. In that situation, the provider may recommend another ultrasound or additional testing.
Approximately 1 in 10 known pregnancies ends in miscarriage. Because hCG may remain in the body after a pregnancy has stopped progressing, a positive urine test alone cannot determine whether a miscarriage has occurred.
How Can Pregnancy Care Center Help?
Begin with a no-cost, self-administered pregnancy test at Pregnancy Care Center. Following a positive result, an advocate can explain available ultrasound referrals and help you connect with a qualified provider.