If you’re considering abortion, you may feel pressure to make a decision quickly. Before moving forward, having accurate medical information about your pregnancy is essential.

An ultrasound provides important details that a pregnancy test alone cannot.

At Bella Women’s Center, we offer free and confidential pregnancy tests, and limited ultrasounds are provided under the direction and supervision of a licensed physician. In our supportive, compassionate, and confidential environment, our trained medical staff can help you better understand your pregnancy before you decide what’s next.

Schedule an appointment today.

A Pregnancy Test Is Just the First Step

A pregnancy test measures human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone released by cells that form the placenta after implantation occurs. While this indicates pregnancy hormones are present, it does not confirm information such as:

• The location of the pregnancy
• Whether a fetal heartbeat is present
• How far along you are and the estimated due date

These details matter because available medical options and potential risks can vary depending on how far along you are and the overall health of the pregnancy.

Confirming the Location of the Pregnancy

Most pregnancies develop inside the uterus. However, about 2% of pregnancies develop outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube. This is called an ectopic pregnancy.

An ectopic pregnancy cannot continue and can become life-threatening if not treated, as the growing pregnancy may cause the fallopian tube to rupture and lead to internal bleeding. Abortion drugs do not treat an ectopic pregnancy.

An ultrasound is the only way to confirm the location of a pregnancy. Identifying an ectopic pregnancy early allows for timely medical care and helps reduce the risk of serious complications.

Determining Gestational Age

How far along you are in pregnancy affects what options may be available and what risks are involved.

Many women estimate their pregnancy timeline based on their last period, but ovulation does not always happen on a predictable schedule. An ultrasound provides a more accurate estimate by measuring the pregnancy and calculating gestational age and an estimated due date.

Confirming Viability

About 1 in 4 known pregnancies end in miscarriage. In some cases, a pregnancy may no longer be developing even though a pregnancy test remains positive.

A limited ultrasound can detect a fetal heartbeat and help determine whether the pregnancy is viable and progressing as expected.  Confirming viability ensures you are not moving forward based on assumptions and allows for appropriate medical follow-up if the pregnancy is not developing.

What to Expect at Bella Women’s Center

Before an ultrasound is performed, you’ll first meet with a staff member for an initial pregnancy appointment to review your information and answer any questions. If appropriate, a limited 2-D ultrasound will then be provided to gather important details about your pregnancy.

Ultrasound technology has been used in obstetric care for many years and is widely recognized as a safe way to view early pregnancy development.

No matter which pregnancy option you are considering, an ultrasound is an invaluable service offered free of charge.

Take the Next Step

If you think you may be pregnant or are considering abortion, schedule an appointment at Bella Women’s Center. Our supportive staff and mentors are here to help you understand your options and feel confident about your next steps.

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