If you’re considering abortion, you may feel like you need to make a decision quickly. You might already be researching abortion online or wondering whether you qualify for the abortion pill. In the middle of all of this, it can be tempting to move straight from a positive pregnancy test to scheduling an abortion.
Before taking that step, however, there’s something important you should do first: get an ultrasound.
An ultrasound is an essential part of understanding your pregnancy because it provides medical information that a home pregnancy test simply can’t. Before making any pregnancy decision, you deserve to know exactly what’s happening with your body and your pregnancy.
Just as important, you deserve to understand how abortion works, the different types of abortion, and the potential risks involved. Having complete information allows you to make a decision based on facts rather than assumptions.
Read on to learn more, or contact New Beginnings of Winchester to find a safe space to talk and find answers.
An Ultrasound Provides Critical Information About Your Pregnancy
A home pregnancy test can tell you that pregnancy hormones are present, but it cannot answer several important medical questions.
An ultrasound can determine:
- Whether your pregnancy is located inside the uterus
- How far along are you
- Whether the pregnancy is viable
Each of these answers matters.
First, an ultrasound can identify an ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when a pregnancy develops outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy cannot continue normally and requires immediate medical treatment. Neither medical nor surgical abortion treats an ectopic pregnancy, so confirming where the pregnancy is located is an essential step in protecting your health.
Second, an ultrasound provides a more accurate estimate of how far along you are. This information is particularly important if you’re considering medical abortion because the abortion drug regimen is approved by the FDA only through 10 weeks of pregnancy, and if you take these drugs when you’re further along, you put yourself at greater risk for complications.
Finally, an ultrasound can determine whether the pregnancy appears to be viable. In some cases, a woman may have a positive pregnancy test but discover through an ultrasound that she has already experienced a miscarriage. If that has occurred, abortion would not be the appropriate medical treatment.
Before making any pregnancy decision, having accurate medical information gives you a clearer understanding of your situation and helps you make an informed choice.
Learning about your pregnancy is only one part of making an informed decision.
It’s equally important to understand how abortion works before deciding whether it’s the right choice for you.
Medical abortion uses two drugs to end a pregnancy.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary to sustain the pregnancy. The second drug, misoprostol, is typically taken 24 to 48 hours later and causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy via contractions.
The process usually takes place at home and commonly involves heavy bleeding and cramping. Potential complications include heavy bleeding, infection, or an incomplete abortion, which occurs when parts of the pregnancy remain in the uterus.
Surgical abortion is performed in a medical setting and involves dilating the cervix so that surgical instruments and/or strong suction can enter the uterus to remove the pregnancy. The specific tools used depend largely on how far along the pregnancy is.
You Deserve the Facts Before You Make Your Decision
An unexpected pregnancy often brings uncertainty, and it’s understandable if you’re feeling confused and nervous about everything you’re trying to process.
Before making a decision about abortion, give yourself the opportunity to gather as much information as possible. An ultrasound can help you understand your pregnancy, while learning about parenting, adoption, and abortion can help you better understand your options.
Making an informed decision means taking time to ask questions, understand the medical facts, and consider what choice aligns with your circumstances and values.
Get a Free Ultrasound at New Beginnings of Winchester
At New Beginnings of Winchester, we believe every woman deserves accurate medical information and compassionate support before making a pregnancy decision.
We offer free, confidential ultrasounds so you can learn important details about your pregnancy, including how far along you are, whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus, and whether your pregnancy is viable. Our team is also here to answer your questions about abortion, parenting, and adoption so you can make an informed decision without pressure.
If you’re considering abortion, start by getting the facts about your pregnancy.
Contact New Beginnings of Winchester today to schedule your free, confidential appointment. We’re here to provide the information, support, and care you deserve. You’re not alone in this.