You may think a late period and a positive pregnancy test are all you need before an abortion, but there’s more to know. The best way to get the information you need is with an ultrasound.
At Carolina Pregnancy Center, we provide free and confidential ultrasound appointments to clients who meet the criteria set by our Medical Director.
What is the Procedure?
An ultrasound is also called a sonogram. It uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the inside of your body. To begin, a sonographer or technician applies a gel to your abdomen. Then, the technician rubs a wand-like instrument called a transducer through the gel.
The transducer sends sound waves into your body that bounce back. These sound waves are converted into electrical signals, becoming real-time images you can view on a computer screen.
Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?
A missed period and a positive pregnancy test indicate the possibility of pregnancy, but an ultrasound confirms it. There is still more to know about your pregnancy; an ultrasound is the best way to get the information.
Here are the three critical questions an ultrasound answers:
1. Confirm if Your Pregnancy is Developing or if You’ve Miscarried
According to experts, as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. Most miscarriages happen early in pregnancy.
It is possible to get a positive pregnancy test result days or weeks following a miscarriage because it takes a woman’s body time to return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels.
An ultrasound determines if your pregnancy is developing or no longer growing.
2. Know How Far Along You Are
The number of weeks you have been pregnant is called the gestational age. Knowing how far along you are is especially critical if you are considering an abortion. The FDA approves the drugs for the abortion pill method through 10 weeks of gestation only.
With an ultrasound, the technician can determine the exact number of weeks by taking measurements.
3. Confirm if Your Pregnancy is in the Correct Location
Although rare, an ectopic pregnancy means the pregnancy is growing outside of the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. An ectopic pregnancy cannot survive and can cause serious complications.
An ultrasound can detect the location of your pregnancy and alert you if you need special assistance from another healthcare provider.
Get Answers Today
An ultrasound is vital to safeguarding your health before abortion and determining where your pregnancy stands.
Get the clarity you need by scheduling an initial free and confidential appointment at Carolina Pregnancy Center. We’re here to help.