If you’re considering abortion, you may feel like you’re under pressure to make a decision quickly. Whether you’re worried about your future, your finances, your relationships, or simply trying to process an unexpected pregnancy, it’s understandable to want to find a way forward as soon as possible.
Before making any pregnancy decision, however, there’s one important step you shouldn’t skip: getting an ultrasound.
An ultrasound ensures you have the medical information you need to protect your health and make an informed choice. Read on to learn why you need an ultrasound, especially before seeking an abortion, and the next steps. Or contact Mercy Women’s Center to find a safe space to talk and get answers.
1. An Ultrasound Gives You Important Medical Information
A home pregnancy test can tell you that you’re pregnant, but it can’t tell you what’s happening with your pregnancy.
An ultrasound provides information that a pregnancy test cannot, including:
- Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus
- Whether the pregnancy is viable (meaning you haven’t miscarried)
- Approximately how far along you are
These are important details because they help ensure you’re making your decision based on accurate medical information rather than estimates or assumptions. Knowing these facts gives you a clearer picture of your pregnancy and helps you better understand your options.
2. An Ultrasound Helps Protect Your Health
One of the most important reasons to have an ultrasound before an abortion is that it can identify medical conditions that require immediate attention.
For example, an ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency that cannot continue normally and cannot be treated with abortion drugs. Without prompt treatment, it can become life-threatening.
An ultrasound can also identify whether you’ve already experienced a miscarriage. Because pregnancy hormones can remain in your body for days or even weeks afterward, you may still receive a positive pregnancy test even though the pregnancy is no longer developing.
These are situations that a home pregnancy test cannot detect, making an ultrasound an important part of protecting your health before making any pregnancy decision.
3. It Helps You Understand Your Pregnancy Options
An ultrasound also tells you how far along you are, which is important if you’re considering abortion.
While many women estimate their due date based on the first day of their last menstrual period, ovulation doesn’t always occur on the same day each month. An ultrasound provides a more accurate estimate of gestational age.
This matters because abortion drugs are FDA-approved for use only through 10 weeks of gestation. As pregnancy progresses, the methods used to perform an abortion change, along with some of the medical considerations and potential risks.
An ultrasound also gives you the opportunity to ask questions and learn about all of your pregnancy options before making a permanent decision.
Start with Mercy Women’s Center
At Mercy Women’s Center, we believe every woman deserves compassionate care, accurate medical information, and the opportunity to make an informed decision about her pregnancy.
We offer free, confidential pregnancy testing and free limited obstetrical ultrasounds for qualifying patients in a safe, judgment-free environment. Our caring team is here to answer your questions, explain your pregnancy options, and provide the support you need, without pressure or financial interest in your decision.
If you’re considering abortion, don’t make your decision without first understanding your pregnancy. Contact Mercy Women’s Center today to schedule your confidential appointment. We’re here to help you protect your health and take your next step feeling confident.