05 Nov Why Does an Ultrasound Matter if I’m Considering Abortion?
After you receive that positive pregnancy test, you may think that you have all the information needed to make a pregnancy decision. However, an ultrasound is an essential next step, even if you’re considering abortion.
Ultrasounds provide valuable details about your pregnancy and health. Without one, you’ll miss critical details that can guide your decision and keep you safe.
Lighthouse Pregnancy Resource Center will help you confirm your pregnancy with pregnancy testing and ultrasound. We’ll also discuss your options so you can move forward confidently. Schedule a no-cost appointment to learn more.
Keep reading to learn why ultrasound is critical to making a decision.
You Need More Information
You may believe that only women who are considering parenting or adoption should have an ultrasound. However, receiving an ultrasound before any decision will protect your health and clarify your options.
An initial ultrasound confirms your pregnancy and can detect certain conditions needing medical treatment. It verifies the following:
- Viability: Is your pregnancy progressing, and is there a heartbeat? As many as 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, which could need medical treatment to prevent further complications.
- Gestational age: How far along is your pregnancy? You need this detail to determine your options. For example, the FDA has approved medical abortion drugs through 10 weeks gestation. Taking abortion drugs after this time can pose health concerns and may not be effective.
- Location: Is your pregnancy located in the uterus? Some women experience an ectopic pregnancy, which means the fertilized egg implants in a location other than the uterus (most often in a fallopian tube). This condition can create life-threatening complications and needs immediate medical attention.
A Crucial Next Step
No matter which option you’re considering, an ultrasound arms you with more information and helps you decide. Without this scan, you could move forward with an abortion without knowing whether you need one and which type you are eligible for.
After having an ultrasound, a qualified healthcare professional can help you determine your next steps. Lighthouse Pregnancy Resource Center staff can also discuss your options and answer your questions.
You are not alone—-help is within reach.
What’s Next?
We provide no-cost pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, options counsel sessions, and more. You’ll be treated with respect and compassion as you navigate your situation.
Help is available if you have an unexpected pregnancy. Schedule a confidential appointment today.
Lighthouse Pregnancy Resource Center does not perform or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.