Wondering if abortion is right for you? Before you make a decision about your unplanned pregnancy, we recommend scheduling an ultrasound scan.

While you may associate ultrasounds with planned pregnancies, they are actually an important step to take regardless of the outcome of your pregnancy. 

Here are 3 reasons you need an ultrasound before getting an abortion:

1. Ultrasounds identify whether or not your pregnancy is viable

Did you know that taking a pregnancy test is just the first step in confirming your pregnancy? While pregnancy tests measure the presence of certain pregnancy hormones, they cannot tell you if your pregnancy is viable or not. 

A nonviable pregnancy, or one in which the fetus is not expected to survive to term or outside of the womb, can initially be discovered through an ultrasound scan. If your pregnancy isn’t viable, the conversation surrounding your pregnancy options will be different, and your doctor will discuss your options with you.

2. Ultrasounds reveal the gestational age of your pregnancy

Before getting an abortion, you’ll need to confirm the gestational age of your pregnancy, as your abortion options will be based on how far along you are. For example, women who are more than 11 weeks along should not take the abortion pill.

An ultrasound is the best way to confirm the age of your pregnancy and learn more about the abortion options available to you.

3. Ultrasounds reveal any concerning health conditions 

It’s important to remember that abortion procedures can be accompanied by severe side effects and health risks. Accessing an ultrasound scan prior to your abortion will help you and your doctor identify any health concerns that may make abortion especially dangerous for you, including, but not limited to, ectopic pregnancy.

An ectopic pregnancy is when the fertilized egg grows outside of the uterus and implants somewhere else, typically within the fallopian tubes. These pregnancies are not only nonviable but can lead to fatal complications for the woman and pregnancy.

Schedule your free ultrasound scan at Choices Resource Center! 

Choices Resource Center exists to ensure that women have the resources and information they need to make safe and informed choices for their pregnancies. If you’re considering abortion, be sure to schedule your free ultrasound scan at Choices Resource Center.

Schedule your free appointment today.