3 Reasons You Need an Ultrasound before Abortion

 You may think there's no reason for an ultrasound if you've already decided to have an abortion. However, an ultrasound provides valuable information that you need beforehand. For instance, did you know there's a possibility you may no longer be pregnant? Here are three reasons why you shouldn't skip this important step.

1. What If You're No Longer Pregnant?

A late period and a positive pregnancy test should be enough information, but there is a possibility that you miscarried. Experts estimate that as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. It is possible to get a positive pregnancy test after a miscarriage because it takes your body time to return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels.

Depending on when you took the test and how far along you are in your pregnancy, you may be surprised to find you're no longer pregnant. An ultrasound detects whether your pregnancy is developing or if you have miscarried.

The risk of a miscarriage decreases after 12 weeks. There's no need to spend money on an abortion if you're no longer pregnant.

2. Do You Know How Far Along You Are?

Abortion providers generally determine the abortion procedure according to how far along you are in your pregnancy. For instance, the FDA approves the use of the drugs for the abortion pill method through 10 weeks of pregnancy only. The further along you are in your pregnancy, the less effective the drugs are.

A surgical procedure differs between the first trimester to the second trimester. You may only need local anesthesia for pain in the first trimester, but you may require general anesthesia in the second. The more involved the procedure becomes, the more expensive it is.

Ultrasound determines the number of weeks and days you have been pregnant, giving you an idea of the type of procedure you can expect.

3. Is the Location of Your Pregnancy Correct?

Although rare, some pregnancies form outside the uterus. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy. If a pregnancy begins developing and growing anywhere other than the uterus, it becomes a life-threatening health situation.

An abortion does not end an ectopic pregnancy. Once diagnosed, you should see your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Once again, an ultrasound provides the information you need to stay safe and determines whether the location of your pregnancy is correct.