How Does an Ultrasound Work?

February 23, 2026

Someone thinking about getting an ultrasound I have to find out they're pregnant

An unexpected pregnancy can bring a lot of questions. After a positive pregnancy test, many women wonder what an ultrasound does and why it matters. Understanding how it works can help you feel more prepared as you consider your next steps.

At Women’s Care Center, every woman is welcomed with care and respect. Our medical team takes time to listen, provides accurate information, and helps you think through your situation in a comfortable, professional setting. We offer complimentary pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds, along with other supportive services.

What Is an Ultrasound?

A prenatal ultrasound (also called a sonogram) is a scan used during pregnancy to look at the uterus and pregnancy using sound waves. It does not use radiation like an X-ray.

During the scan, a device called a transducer sends sound waves through the abdomen or vagina. These sound waves bounce off structures inside the body, and a computer converts them into images displayed on a screen. This creates a real-time view that can help determine more information about the pregnancy.

Types of Ultrasounds in Early Pregnancy

In early pregnancy, ultrasound images may be taken in two different ways. The method used often depends on how far along the pregnancy is and which approach will provide the clearest image.

With an abdominal ultrasound, a water-based gel is applied to the lower abdomen and a transducer is moved across the skin to view the uterus.

With a transvaginal ultrasound, a thin, wand-like transducer is inserted into the vagina to provide a closer view of the uterus, cervix, endometrium, fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, or the pelvic cavity. This method is often used in very early pregnancy, sometimes around 5 weeks, because it can detect early signs of pregnancy, such as a gestational sac, sooner than an abdominal ultrasound.

A licensed healthcare professional performs limited ultrasound services at Women’s Care Center.

Why an Ultrasound Is Important

A pregnancy test detects the presence of the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), but it cannot provide additional details. An ultrasound can help determine:

How far along the pregnancy is
Whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus
Whether there are signs of viability and that the pregnancy is progressing

An ultrasound can also help identify signs of miscarriage or detect an ectopic pregnancy, which happens when a pregnancy implants outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. Ectopic pregnancy is a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical care and cannot continue safely.

We want you to know for sure what is happening so you can move forward with confidence and clear information.

Support for You

You do not have to sort through this alone. Women’s Care Center offers complimentary pregnancy testing and limited ultrasound services in a welcoming and non-judgmental environment.If you think you may be pregnant, contact Women’s Care Center today to schedule your appointment. Our medical team is here to help you get the answers you need so you can move forward.