How Much Does Pregnancy Ultrasound (First Trimester) Cost?
Also known as: Ob us < 14 wks single fetus (CPT 76801)
An ultrasound scan in early pregnancy to confirm the pregnancy, check the babys heartbeat, and estimate the due date.
Pregnancy Ultrasound (First Trimester) (CPT 76801) costs $117 at Medicare rates.
The rates shown below represent the complete Medicare reimbursement for this service. No separate facility fee applies for this type of procedure.
Patient Guide: Pregnancy Ultrasound (First Trimester)
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
A technician applies gel to your belly and moves a wand over it to create images. In very early pregnancy, a transvaginal ultrasound may be used instead.
How Long Does It Take?
15-30 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Pregnancy confirmation, due date estimation, checking for twins, heartbeat confirmation, first trimester screening
How to Prepare
You may be asked to drink water before to fill your bladder, which helps create clearer images. No fasting needed.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Ob us < 14 wks single fetus
How to Reduce Your Cost for Ob us < 14 wks single fetus
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
How is the Price Calculated?
Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.
Payment = Total RVU (3.50) x CF ($33.40) = $117
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Ob us < 14 wks single fetus cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Ob us < 14 wks single fetus is $117. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Ob us < 14 wks single fetus cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Ob us < 14 wks single fetus can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Ob us < 14 wks single fetus?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Ob us < 14 wks single fetus when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.