Facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming and scary, and when you add pressure from a partner or family members, it can leave you wanting to deal with a pregnancy as quickly as possible.
But for the sake of your health, there are important facts and details about your pregnancy you need to know before an abortion.
Keep reading to learn about the 3 reasons you need an ultrasound before an abortion, and how an ultrasound can protect your health and equip you to make the best decision.
The Importance of an Ultrasound in Pregnancy
An ultrasound scan is a painless procedure that uses sound wave technology to create live images of the pregnancy growing inside your uterus.
These images allow medical professionals to assess 3 important elements of your pregnancy:
- Age of Pregnancy—Knowing the age of your pregnancy determines what options are available to you. For example, the FDA recommends that a medical abortion, also called the abortion pill, not be attempted after 10 weeks of pregnancy, as serious medical complications can result—including an incomplete abortion.
- Location of Pregnancy—A healthy pregnancy grows in the uterus. However, it is possible for a pregnancy to implant elsewhere in your body, such as a fallopian tube, ovary, or cervix. When this happens, it is called an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy is a very dangerous complication that requires immediate medical intervention to protect your health and safety.
- Viability of Pregnancy—The Mayo Clinic estimates that 10-20% of pregnancies end in a miscarriage. An ultrasound scan will reveal whether your pregnancy is viable or if you have had a miscarriage or are in the process of having a miscarriage.
Getting the Help You Need
If you suspect you are pregnant, or have a positive result from an at-home pregnancy test, Palm Beach Women’s Clinic is here to help you.
We offer no-cost pregnancy testing and a complimentary follow-up ultrasound scan if your pregnancy test result is positive.
Our trained team will also discuss the results of the ultrasound scan with you, answer all your questions, and listen to all your concerns.
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can be scary, but taking the time to get the facts you need to protect your health can best empower you to make the best decision for your future.
Contact us today to schedule your free and confidential appointment.