If you’ve taken a pregnancy test and it came back positive, you may be wondering what comes next. If you’re considering abortion, you might also wonder: “Why do I need an ultrasound?”
An ultrasound can provide information that a pregnancy test cannot. It can help you better understand what is happening with your pregnancy before making a pregnancy decision.
A Positive Pregnancy Test Doesn’t Tell You Everything
A home pregnancy test detects a hormone called hCG. A positive result can tell you that pregnancy hormones are present, but it doesn’t show where the pregnancy is located or how far along it is.
An ultrasound can provide additional information about the pregnancy, including its location and development.
Knowing How Far Along You Are Matters
Pregnancy dating can affect what options are available and what care may be appropriate. An ultrasound can help estimate gestational age, particularly when you aren’t sure when your last period started or your dates are uncertain. For medication abortion, the FDA-approved regimen of mifepristone and misoprostol is indicated for an intrauterine pregnancy through 70 days of gestation. The FDA labeling says ultrasound can be used when pregnancy duration is uncertain or when an ectopic pregnancy is suspected.
Some women may not know exactly how far along they are when they receive a positive pregnancy test. If you’re unsure of your dates, an ultrasound can help determine gestational age.
Also, ACOG considers first-trimester ultrasound the most accurate method for establishing or confirming gestational age.
It Can Check Where the Pregnancy Is Located
One important reason a provider may recommend an ultrasound is to evaluate whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy develops outside the uterus and requires different medical management.
Mifepristone is not effective for treating an ectopic pregnancy, and the FDA lists confirmed or suspected ectopic pregnancy as a contraindication to the medication-abortion regimen. This means that the medication should not be taken if you have or suspect an ectopic pregnancy.
Confirming Development is Important
If you’re unsure what decision you’ll make about your pregnancy or are wanting to abort, confirming that the pregnancy is developing with an ultrasound can give you important information before making that decision. Since about 80% of all miscarriages occur in the first trimester, there is a chance that your pregnancy may not be viable(developing). There is no need to put yourself through the physical, mental, or financial aspects of an abortion if your pregnancy is not developing. An ultrasound is key in providing you with this important information.
You Deserve Information Before Making a Decision
An ultrasound isn’t about pressuring you into a particular decision. It can give you more information about your pregnancy so you can talk with a licensed medical professional about what the findings mean.
If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you don’t have to figure everything out at once. Getting accurate information and asking questions can help you take your next step with greater confidence.
OWCC provides FREE limited ultrasounds with no strings attached, to empower you in your decision-making process. Protect your health and your money by contacting us today to schedule.
