If you’ve taken a pregnancy test and are in a position where you are dealing with an unexpected pregnancy, it can be easy to panic. It’s important to consider all the correct steps before deciding whether you want an abortion.
Many women don’t realize just how important an ultrasound is before getting an abortion, as it gives you important medical information that a test alone can not.
At Pregnancy Help Center, we offer limited transvaginal and abdominal ultrasounds after a positive pregnancy test, along with options counseling and education classes.
Whether you’re confused about what to do after a positive pregnancy test result or simply want someone to help you navigate this overwhelming time, we are here to help.
Schedule a free appointment here.
A Pregnancy Test Doesn’t Give All The Information
While a positive pregnancy test confirms your pregnancy, it doesn’t give us the full picture when it comes to how your pregnancy is progressing and your health.
The main job of a pregnancy test is to detect the hormone hCG in your urine or bloodstream, but it cannot give us important medical information, such as where the pregnancy is located and if it is developing as expected.
This is why many clinics and centers suggest a follow-up ultrasound after a confirmed pregnancy test, so you can have more clarity around your pregnancy and can make more informed choices.
What An Ultrasound Shows
In early pregnancy, an ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image, allowing you to see what is happening inside your body. Ultrasounds can be performed as early as six to seven weeks of pregnancy.
The key details an ultrasound shows are –
- Gestational age – This tells you how far along your pregnancy is and is important since it affects whether or not you can take the abortion pill. The abortion pill can only be taken up to ten weeks of gestation according to the FDA.
- The location – Most pregnancies normally grow within the uterus; however, in rare cases, they can grow outside of the uterus, which is called an ectopic pregnancy. It is estimated that ectopic pregnancies account for 2% of all pregnancies. Ectopic pregnancies can be life-threatening and need immediate medical attention; they cannot be treated with an abortion.
- Development indicators – During early pregnancy, an ultrasound scan is used to detect a heartbeat and confirm that the pregnancy is progressing normally. Miscarriages can happen early on, with 80% happening in the first trimester.
Why Does an Ultrasound Matter?
An ultrasound can provide important information about your pregnancy before any decisions are made.
This information is important because different pregnancy conditions require different types of medical care. For example, an ectopic pregnancy requires medical treatment that is different from standard pregnancy management.
In cases where a miscarriage has already occurred, ultrasound findings can help determine whether the miscarriage is complete or if any tissue remains in the uterus.
Having accurate medical information can help ensure that any next steps are based on a clear understanding of your pregnancy’s current status.
Get The Support You Need
We believe at Pregnancy Help Center that women deserve confidential support and clear information surrounding an unexpected pregnancy, free of judgment.
We provide limited ultrasounds, counseling, options guidance, and educational support for women who think they might be pregnant or need extra support after receiving a positive pregnancy test result.
Schedule an appointment today to get the support you deserve. You don’t need to handle this alone.
