Why Do I Need an Ultrasound After a Positive Pregnancy Test?
Why Do I Need an Ultrasound After a Positive Pregnancy Test?
A positive pregnancy test tells you that you’re pregnant. But it doesn’t tell you everything you need to know.
A free ultrasound may help you find some answers. An ultrasound after a positive pregnancy test confirms the pregnancy, helps you learn more about the pregnancy, and gives you the chance to speak with someone about any worries and questions you may have.
Free, Limited OB Pregnancy Ultrasound in Ankeny, Iowa
Alpha Women’s Center offers a free, limited OB ultrasound at our Ankeny location. There’s also no cost, you don’t need insurance, and you don’t need a referral.
You can call 515-965-7885 (Ankeny), or visit our website to request an appointment. Des Moines clients can call the Des Moines center at 515-285-5700 and be connected to Ankney for an ultrasound.
Our team understands that this can be an overwhelming time. We’re here to answer your questions, help you find support, and talk with you about your options. Our center is confidential and judgment-free.
Below, we’ll discuss what the nurses will be looking for during an ultrasound appointment and what to expect when you visit Alpha Women’s Center.
What Happens Before an Ultrasound Appointment?
When you first arrive at Alpha Women’s Center, you’ll be greeted at the front desk, given a brief Request for Service form to complete so we can collect your contact info and gather a few notes about how best to care for you. We’ll also take a copy of your ID, so you’ll want to make sure that you bring it with you.
Even though you might’ve received a positive on an at-home pregnancy test, you’ll be asked to take one in our center as well. A positive pregnancy test performed by one of our nurses is the first medical step required for a limited OB ultrasound.
While you wait for the pregnancy test results, you’ll meet one of our friendly client advocates. She’ll show you to a private room where she’ll get to know you better through a brief, confidential intake process.
If the pregnancy test was positive, the nurse will also meet privately with you to discuss your medical history and information about the pregnancy. Then, the nurse will show you to a private ultrasound room and begin the ultrasound. The client advocate that you spoke with will also chaperone the ultrasound process.
What Happens During an Ultrasound?
Checking for a Heartbeat
One of the things the nurse will be doing is checking for a heartbeat. When you are far enough into the pregnancy, the nurse might be able to find the heartbeat. This confirms whether the pregnancy is developing.
Checking to See How Far Along You Are
Another reason to get an ultrasound is to figure out how far along you are. During the appointment, the nurse will look at the pregnancy on the ultrasound screen. When the pregnancy can be seen on the ultrasound, she may take measurements to estimate how far along you are.
Checking Where the Pregnancy is Growing
The nurse will also check to see where the pregnancy is growing. Most pregnancies grow inside of the uterus. Sometimes, a pregnancy grows outside of the uterus, so this is another thing the nurse will be checking for during the appointment.
How Does Knowing Those Things Affect My Pregnancy?
The information provided by an ultrasound includes things you deserve to know before making a decision.
Knowing that there’s a heartbeat means the pregnancy is developing as it should. Learning how far along you are can help you plan for the future. If a pregnancy outside the uterus is discovered, Alpha Women’s Center can refer you to an appropriate, local healthcare provider for further evaluation and care.
Support and Options
If you’re still deciding what to do, it’s okay to have questions. When you visit the center for an ultrasound, you’ll be able to speak with a team member who can answer your questions and talk with you about your options. You can also read through our blog I Just Found Out I’m Pregnant. What Are My Options?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by a possible pregnancy, you are not alone. Many other women have been where you are now. You don’t have to figure everything out by yourself. And if you’re wondering about your future, feel free to read our past blog How Will Pregnancy Affect My Future? or speak to a team member when you visit the center. Check out our website to request an appointment.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational and educational purposes only. If you have concerns about your pregnancy, please contact your healthcare provider.
References
Ectopic Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments, Cleveland Clinic, Accessed August 10, 2026.
Limited Obstetrical Ultrasounds — Options for Women | Cornerstone, Cornerstone, Accessed August 10, 2026.