If you’ve scheduled your first ultrasound and are wondering how to prepare, the good news is that there’s very little you need to do.
Ultrasound is a simple, routine scan that gives you valuable information about your pregnancy. Whether you’re confirming an unexpected or planned pregnancy, an early ultrasound is an essential part of your care.
At Alabama Pregnancy Test Center, we offer free, limited ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy and provide the answers you need to make informed decisions.
Schedule your free appointment today.
Is There Any Preparation Needed?
Most of the time, no special preparation is required for an ultrasound, especially in early pregnancy. You don’t need to fast, change your medications, or avoid certain foods or drinks beforehand.
However, some providers recommend drinking water before your appointment. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, “A full bladder helps move the uterus up and moves the bowel away for better imaging” during a pelvic ultrasound. This can make it easier for the ultrasound get a clear view of the pregnancy in its early stages.
If you’re asked to drink water beforehand, you may be instructed to avoid using the restroom until after the scan. Not every woman needs to do this, so it’s always a good idea to check with the provider when scheduling your ultrasound.
Ultrasounds at our center do not require any special preparation.
What Should You Expect During the Appointment?
During pregnancy, ultrasounds are either transvaginal or abdominal.
A transvaginal ultrasound uses a small device inserted into the vagina to get clear images of the pregnancy in the very early stages. An abdominal ultrasound uses a handheld device called a transducer, and the sonographer slides it over the surface of your stomach.
Both types of ultrasound are simple, and your nurse or sonographer will explain each step so you know what to expect.
Confirm Your Pregnancy with Confidence
An ultrasound can tell you how far along you are, confirm that your pregnancy is located in the uterus, and show whether there’s a heartbeat. This is essential information to help you understand your options and protect your health.
Schedule your free appointment at the Alabama Pregnancy Test Center today. We’re here to provide trusted information and compassionate support as you figure out what’s next.