A positive pregnancy test provides one piece of information: hCG, the pregnancy hormone, was detected. If you’re considering abortion, three medical questions still remain: How far along is the pregnancy? Is the pregnancy visible inside the uterus? Is cardiac activity detectable? A limited obstetrical ultrasound can answer these questions before you make a decision.
Horizon Pregnancy Resources offers free, confidential pregnancy services and limited ultrasounds for qualifying patients. Reach out to begin with a nurse and learn whether you qualify. And read on to learn more about why an ultrasound is critical before an abortion.
Your Calendar May Not Tell the Whole Story
Gestational age measures how far a pregnancy has progressed, beginning with the first day of your last menstrual period. However, irregular cycles or uncertain dates can make that estimate less reliable.
An ultrasound uses measurements to estimate gestational age and may show that you are earlier or later than expected. This matters because the type of abortion performed depends partly on pregnancy length. The abortion pill regimen is only FDA-approved for pregnancies through ten weeks[1] gestation (70 days or less since the first day of a patient’s last menstrual period).
Location Is Not a Technicality
A pregnancy normally implants in the uterus. About 2%[2], or 1 in 50, pregnancies are ectopic, meaning they develop outside the uterus. Most ectopic pregnancies occur in a fallopian tube and can become life-threatening without prompt medical treatment. The abortion pill does not end an ectopic pregnancy.
A limited ultrasound may confirm that the pregnancy is visible inside the uterus. If its location cannot be established or the scan raises a concern, further medical evaluation may be recommended.
A Positive Test Cannot Show Cardiac Activity
A positive pregnancy test detects hCG, even if the pregnancy is no longer developing. About 10% to 20%[3] of known pregnancies end in miscarriage.
An ultrasound can look for cardiac activity and other signs that the pregnancy is progressing. If it is too early for the scan to provide definite information, a repeat ultrasound or additional medical follow-up may be recommended.
Begin With No-Cost Information
Horizon Pregnancy Resources provides free limited ultrasounds performed by licensed sonographers for qualifying patients. A nurse or advocate can also answer your questions and explain your pregnancy options without pressure.
Start with what a pregnancy test cannot tell you. Contact us to request a free, confidential appointment and learn more about your pregnancy before making a decision.
*Horizon Pregnancy Resources does not perform or refer for abortions.
[1] Information about Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. FDA. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation
[2] Ectopic Pregnancy. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9687-ectopic-pregnancy
[3] Miscarriage. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes/syc-20354298
