If you’re thinking about abortion, you might wonder why an ultrasound would be recommended first. It’s a common question, and understanding the medical reasons behind this step can help you move forward with clearer information. Affirm Women’s Health offers no-cost pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and confidential consultations, giving you a private place to learn more about your pregnancy before making any decisions.
Here are the key reasons an ultrasound is an important part of early pregnancy care.
It Confirms the Location of the Pregnancy
An ultrasound shows whether the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus. This matters because ectopic pregnancies, which occur outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube, cannot continue safely and require prompt medical attention.
Symptoms alone cannot reliably determine if a pregnancy is ectopic, so ultrasound imaging is the safest way to check.
It Determines Gestational Age
Many women are unsure of their exact dates, especially with irregular cycles or recent birth control changes. Ultrasound is the most accurate method for determining how far along the pregnancy is.
Gestational age affects:
- Whether a medical or surgical abortion is used
- Medication dosage and effectiveness
- Eligibility for certain procedures
- Overall safety considerations
Knowing this information helps you understand what options apply to your situation.
It Evaluates Pregnancy Viability
An early ultrasound can detect cardiac activity, a key indicator of whether a pregnancy is developing as expected.
This information helps identify:
- Early pregnancy loss
- Miscarriage risks
- When additional follow-up imaging may be needed
Because symptoms cannot reliably determine viability, ultrasound offers essential medical insight.
A Clearer Picture Before You Decide
No matter what you’re considering, having accurate medical information gives you a clearer understanding of your health and next steps. At Affirm Women’s Health, you can talk through your questions in a confidential setting and gain a clearer understanding of what your ultrasound results mean for your situation.
Schedule a no-cost appointment to learn more about your pregnancy.
Affirm Women’s Health does not provide or refer for abortions.