Two common concerns early in pregnancy are whether the pregnancy is viable, meaning it appears to be developing as expected, and whether it is located in the uterus, rather than elsewhere in the body. Pregnancy testing and ultrasound are key tools for answering both questions and protecting your health.
Pregnancy Help Center provides private pregnancy testing and limited obstetrical ultrasounds at no cost. Ultrasounds are performed by a registered nurse and a trained sonographer to help you better understand what’s happening in your body and what next steps may be appropriate.
Reach out to schedule an appointment to talk with someone who can help you get clear answers and reliable support.
What Does “Viable” Mean?
The word viable can mean different things depending on the stage of pregnancy. In later pregnancy, viability refers to the point at which a baby may be able to survive outside the womb, typically around 24 to 28 weeks.
In early pregnancy, the term viability generally refers to whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus and shows signs of development consistent with its gestational age.
Clinicians assess this by looking for specific ultrasound findings. These may include a gestational sac within the uterus, growth measurements that align with how far along the pregnancy is, and, once the pregnancy has progressed far enough, the detection of a fetal heartbeat.
If the ultrasound does not detect a heartbeat once the pregnancy has reached the point where one is typically expected, it may indicate a nonviable pregnancy, resulting in a miscarriage. Miscarriage occurs in as many as 26% of pregnancies.
Why Pregnancy Location Matters
A fertilized egg that implants outside the uterus is called an ectopic pregnancy. As the pregnancy develops, it can cause the tube to rupture and lead to serious internal bleeding. Most ectopic pregnancies are located in a fallopian tube, though they can also develop in the cervix, ovary, or abdominal cavity.
Ectopic pregnancies will never be viable and can be life-threatening if left untreated. They may not cause noticeable symptoms at first. Because of this, confirming the pregnancy location early is an important safety step. Ultrasound is the primary tool used to determine whether a pregnancy is located in the uterus or elsewhere.
Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy
Early on, an ectopic pregnancy may feel like a typical pregnancy, with symptoms such as a missed period, tender breasts, or nausea. However, some warning signs can include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Lower back pain
- Mild pain in the abdomen or pelvis
- Cramping or pain on one side of the pelvis
At this stage, it may be hard to tell the difference between a normal early pregnancy and an ectopic pregnancy. If you experience abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain, contact your OB-GYN or another healthcare provider.
What to Expect Next
Whether you are seeking reassurance, planning prenatal care, or simply need clear information, understanding your pregnancy status can help you move forward with confidence.
Contact us today to schedule a no-cost pregnancy testing appointment and learn whether a limited ultrasound is appropriate for you.