When you first learn you’re pregnant, it can stir up many emotions and raise lots of questions.
Before making any decision about your pregnancy (including abortion), it’s important to have a complete understanding of what’s happening inside your body. An ultrasound provides medically accurate information that can help you understand your options.
At Reach Out Pregnancy Center, we offer no-cost, confidential ultrasounds in a safe and caring environment. Schedule your appointment today.
Here are three reasons why you need an ultrasound before an abortion.
1. An Ultrasound Confirms a Progressing Pregnancy
A positive pregnancy test only detects a hormone called hCG; it doesn’t confirm whether your pregnancy is developing normally.
An ultrasound can determine if there’s a heartbeat and whether the pregnancy is progressing. Since as many as 10-20% of known pregnancies end naturally in miscarriage, this scan helps you know whether your pregnancy is still viable and whether any follow-up care might be necessary.
2. An Ultrasound Measures the Gestational Age
Knowing how far along you are is essential for understanding what medical options are available and which ones may be safe for you.
The abortion pill (also called medical abortion) is only FDA-approved for pregnancies up to 10 weeks of gestation. Ultrasound provides an accurate measurement of gestational age, unlike relying on the date of your last menstrual period, which can be off by several days or even weeks.
3. An Ultrasound Identifies the Location of Your Pregnancy
Sometimes, a fertilized egg implants somewhere outside the uterus. This is called an ectopic pregnancy, and it’s considered a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. An ultrasound can detect this condition and help prevent serious complications.
Positive Test? Schedule Your Appointment
Getting an ultrasound scan done before an abortion helps ensure that you have all the medical information you need to protect your safety and seek care if needed.
At Reach Out Pregnancy Center, our caring medical team offers pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds at no cost to you. Schedule your appointment today.
*We do not refer for or perform abortions.
**All abortion information is accurate at the time of writing.
FAQs
1. How long does an ultrasound take?
Most ultrasounds take 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the stage of your pregnancy and the type of information the medical provider is collecting.
2. What if the ultrasound shows a miscarriage?
If a potential miscarriage is detected (no heartbeat beyond six weeks of gestation), our staff will discuss your results and refer you for the medical care you need.
3. Will I be able to ask questions during the appointment?
Yes. You’ll have time to discuss your results with a nurse and address any concerns you may have.