Did you know that getting an ultrasound before an abortion is an essential way to protect your health? Ultrasound is a simple scan that will give you the information you need to know to stay safe.
Read on to learn more about the top three reasons you need an ultrasound before an abortion. (Or, if you’re looking for a free ultrasound near you and a safe space to talk, we’re here. All appointments are free and confidential.)
1. You Need to Know Your Pregancy’s Gestational Age
Did you know medical abortion (also known as the “abortion pill”) is only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is ten weeks gestation or under? If you seek this type of abortion and your pregnancy is older, you’re at a greater risk for serious complications.
Ultrasound is the only reliable way to learn the age of your pregnancy.
2. You Need to Know Your Pregnancy’s Location
A normal pregnancy develops inside the uterus. But rarely, this process happens outside the uterus. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy, and it’s a life-threatening condition.
An ultrasound can reveal the location of your pregnancy to rule out or confirm an ectopic pregnancy. If you’re experiencing one, you’ll need emergency medical treatment, not an abortion.
3. You Need to Know if Your Pregnancy Is Viable
Roughly 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, and an ultrasound can reveal whether you’ve had one. If you’ve had a miscarriage, you’ll need treatment other than abortion.
This is important since experiencing a miscarriage isn’t always obvious, so you may have had one without knowing it.
Next Steps
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming—but it’s important to take the time to protect your health. Don’t rush into an abortion without first getting an ultrasound. Your health depends on it.
At Dove Medical, we offer free, limited ultrasounds to give you the information you need to stay safe. Contact us today to schedule a free appointment.
*Dove Medical offers pregnancy diagnosis, decision coaching, and accurate information about all pregnancy options; however, we do not refer for or perform abortion services including the abortion pill.
**This post is for education and information purposes only and does not substitute the advice of a Healthcare Professional.