If you’re considering abortion, you may feel like you need to make a decision quickly. An unexpected pregnancy can bring fear, uncertainty, and countless questions about what to do next.

Before making any pregnancy decision, however, there’s one important step you shouldn’t skip: getting an ultrasound.

An ultrasound gives you important medical information about your pregnancy that’s essential to know before seeking an abortion or making any pregnancy decision.

Here’s why an ultrasound matters.

It Confirms Important Information About Your Pregnancy

A home pregnancy test can tell you that you’re pregnant, but it can’t tell you how your pregnancy is progressing.

An ultrasound provides important medical information, including:

• Whether the pregnancy is located inside the uterus
• Whether the pregnancy is viable (meaning you haven’t miscarried)
• Approximately how far along you are

These details are essential because they give you a clearer understanding of your pregnancy and help you determine your next steps.

It Helps Protect Your Health

One of the most important reasons to have an ultrasound is that it can identify conditions that require immediate medical attention.

For example, an ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy cannot continue normally and requires prompt medical treatment. Abortion drugs cannot end an ectopic pregnancy.

An ultrasound can also identify whether you’ve experienced a miscarriage. Because the hormone hCG can remain in your body for days or even weeks afterward, you may still receive a positive pregnancy test even if the pregnancy is no longer developing.

It Gives You the Information You Need to Make an Informed Decision

Knowing how far along you are is an important part of understanding your options.

While you may estimate your pregnancy based on the first day of your last menstrual period, an ultrasound provides a more accurate estimate of gestational age.

Abortion drugs are FDA-approved for use only through 10 weeks of gestation. This limit is one reason an accurate estimate of gestational age matters before considering these drugs.

An ultrasound also allows you to ask questions and learn about all of your pregnancy options before making a permanent decision.

Get the Answers You Need at Family Life Services

If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, Family Life Services is here to help.

We offer free, confidential pregnancy testing and ultrasound support for qualifying patients so you can receive important medical information about your pregnancy before making any decision. Our caring team is here to answer your questions, explain your pregnancy options, and provide compassionate support in a safe, judgment-free environment.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Contact Family Life Services today to schedule your confidential appointment. We’re here for you.

Family Life Services does not provide or refer for abortions.