Why Does an Ultrasound Matter if I’m Considering Abortion?

If you think you might be pregnant, one of the most important steps you can take is confirming your pregnancy with a test, followed by an ultrasound. A medical professional can use this simple scan to provide essential details about your pregnancy, helping you safeguard your health as you consider your next steps.

At Mendo Lake Women’s Clinic, we offer confidential pregnancy testing and limited obstetric ultrasounds at no cost, giving you the information and support you deserve. Schedule your appointment today to receive accurate, professional guidance.

What Does an Ultrasound Do?

An ultrasound uses sound waves to create a real-time image of your uterus and pregnancy. A trained nurse or sonographer will either move a small handheld device across your abdomen or use a slender device vaginally, depending on how early the pregnancy is.

The procedure is safe, and no radiation is involved. Most people feel little to no discomfort, although you may be asked to arrive with a full bladder for clearer images, which can create some temporary pressure.

Why an Ultrasound Is an Important Step Before an Abortion

A pregnancy test alone cannot confirm how far along you are, whether the pregnancy is located safely in the uterus, or whether it is viable, all of which directly affect your options. An ultrasound provides critical medical information. At Mendo Lake Women’s Clinic, an ultrasound can help determine:

• Gestational age (how far along you are).  This helps determine which abortion methods are medically appropriate. Medication abortion is only FDA-approved up to 10 weeks. Dating cannot be confirmed by symptoms or a test strip alone.
  
• Location of your pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy, one developing outside the uterus, cannot be treated with abortion pills or procedures and requires immediate medical attention. An ultrasound is the only way to detect this.
  
• Viability. An ultrasound can assess if the pregnancy is developing with a heartbeat. If the pregnancy is not viable or is ending naturally, an abortion procedure may not be necessary.

Having this information protects your health and helps you make an informed decision.

When Should You Schedule an Ultrasound?

If you’ve had a positive home pregnancy test or are worried you might be pregnant, reach out to us about your next steps. Early medical insight helps identify potential complications and gives you a clear picture of what’s happening in your body.

At Mendo Lake Women’s Clinic, you’ll receive confidential, compassionate care from professionals who are here for you. Schedule no-cost pregnancy testing and an ultrasound today and take an important step toward understanding your pregnancy and supporting your well-being.