Before undergoing an abortion procedure, gathering as much information as possible is crucial to ensure you can make an informed decision. One of the essential steps in this process is an ultrasound.
At Ventura County Pregnancy Center, we offer no-cost onsite ultrasound scans so you can get answers about your pregnancy. Schedule yours today. Here are three reasons why an ultrasound is critical before an abortion.
1. Confirming Details of the Pregnancy
How long you have been pregnant is known as gestational age. While period tracking apps and other estimations might provide some guidance, they aren’t precise. To accurately determine gestational age, you want to rely on an ultrasound examination, which will enable a sonographer or nurse to take measurements.
Medical abortions are only FDA-approved for the first 70 days of pregnancy. After 70 days, another abortion procedure might be considered safer for you. Knowing the exact gestational age will help you determine your available options.
2. Detecting Ectopic Pregnancies
A pregnancy test alone cannot determine whether a pregnancy develops correctly or is positioned appropriately within the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy is when the embryo implants outside the uterus. It can’t proceed normally and poses severe risks to your health, including life-threatening internal bleeding.
An abortion procedure won’t address an ectopic pregnancy since the fetus isn’t in the uterus. If an ectopic pregnancy is detected, it requires prompt attention. An ultrasound will confirm the pregnancy’s location, allowing you to get the necessary care.
3. Assessing the Health and Progress of Your Pregnancy
Approximately 26% of pregnancies unfortunately result in miscarriage. An ultrasound can help determine if this has occurred. In the case of a miscarriage, your treatment options would differ from that of an abortion.
Ventura County Pregnancy Center Can Help
An ultrasound isn’t just a routine step but a critical one. It clarifies the pregnancy’s specifics, ensuring the woman’s safety and compliance with legal guidelines.
Schedule a no-cost onsite limited ultrasound online at Ventura County Pregnancy Center or call 805-644-3307. By getting an ultrasound, women can make informed decisions grounded in accurate medical data, prioritizing their health and well-being.