If you’re considering an abortion after finding out you are unexpectedly pregnant, it’s important to slow down and make sure you have accurate information about your pregnancy.

An ultrasound provides medical information that a pregnancy test cannot and can help protect your health while giving you a clearer understanding of your pregnancy.

Bella Women’s Center is here to help you get the clarity you need. We offer free and confidential pregnancy testing, along with a limited ultrasound if your test result is positive.

We also offer accurate information about abortion, including the risks and considerations, so you can make a confident and informed decision.

Schedule an appointment today.

A Pregnancy Test Alone Is Not Enough

You might not see the need to get an ultrasound before an abortion if you’ve already taken a pregnancy test.

However, it’s important to know that pregnancy tests only detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

They do not provide important medical information about your pregnancy, including where the pregnancy is located, how far along you are, or whether the pregnancy appears to be viable.

1. To See If the Pregnancy Is Developing

Around 10–20% of pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage, and you may still receive a positive pregnancy test result despite having miscarried due to the remaining elevated levels of hCG.

An ultrasound can detect fetal cardiac activity (a fetal heartbeat) to help determine whether the pregnancy is viable. If you have already miscarried, then you will need specific follow-up medical care.

2. To Check the Location of the Pregnancy

About 2% of pregnancies implant outside the uterus. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy and is not a viable pregnancy.

An ectopic pregnancy needs urgent medical attention, since it can cause life-threatening bleeding if left untreated. It cannot be treated with the abortion pill.

An ultrasound will check the location of the pregnancy and help you get prompt medical care if you are having an ectopic pregnancy.

3. To Understand How Far Along You Are

The abortion pill is approved by the FDA through ten weeks of gestation. Taking the abortion pill beyond this timeframe can increase the chances of complications such as an incomplete abortion or heavy and prolonged bleeding.

An ultrasound can determine the gestational age of the pregnancy. Estimating how far along you are based on your last menstrual period alone is not always accurate, especially if you have irregular periods, since ovulation can occur at different times.

Get a Limited Ultrasound at Bella Women’s Center

We know an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming, and at Bella Women’s Center, we want you to know that we are here for you, whether you simply need someone to talk to or would like to access our free pregnancy services.

We can also offer options counseling where we will discuss all your options, including parenting, adoption, and abortion, in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

Contact us to make an appointment.

Bella Women’s Center does not perform or refer for abortions.