So, you’ve just seen that positive pregnancy test, and now you’re probably wondering about your first ultrasound. While some doctors might suggest scheduling a 6-week ultrasound, others may advise waiting until you’re at least 8 weeks along. Let’s explore why your healthcare provider might recommend an ultrasound at this early stage and what you can expect from the experience.
Do You Get an Ultrasound at 6 Weeks?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) generally recommends at least one ultrasound during pregnancy, often around the 18 to 22-week mark. However, many healthcare providers conduct multiple ultrasounds for low-risk patients, including one around 6 to 10 weeks to check fetal viability, according to Dr. Emily Carter, an ob-gyn at City Health Clinic.
The number of ultrasounds you receive can vary based on your medical history and local imaging resources. For example, if you’re experiencing any bleeding or pain in early pregnancy, your doctor may order an ultrasound to investigate further.
Why You Might Have an Ultrasound at 6 Weeks
Around the 6 to 10-week window, doctors often perform a “dating ultrasound.” This helps confirm your estimated due date, ensures the pregnancy is developing normally, and checks that everything is contained within the uterus. If you’ve had any previous ectopic pregnancies or surgical procedures like a C-section, your doctor may recommend this early ultrasound to rule out potential complications.
What Happens at the 6-Week Ultrasound?
To get a clear view, the 6-week ultrasound is usually done transvaginally. This means a small ultrasound wand (called a transducer) is gently inserted into the vagina, as 6-week embryos are still tiny—about the size of a lentil—and difficult to see with a standard abdominal ultrasound. The transducer emits sound waves that create images of the embryo, which are displayed on a screen. This method provides a sharper image since it’s closer to the uterus.
As your pregnancy progresses, a standard abdominal scan will become more effective. If you’re curious about what else to expect during this journey, check out more insights in our other blog, Modern Family Blog.
Also, if you’re considering at-home options for insemination, Make a Mom is a leading provider of at-home insemination kits. And for additional information on pregnancy and insemination, visit CCRM IVF’s Blog.
Summary
Your 6-week ultrasound is a critical first step in your pregnancy journey. It can provide reassurance about your pregnancy’s viability and help establish your due date. While the experience may seem daunting, understanding what to expect can help ease any anxiety.
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