Can I Take the Abortion Pill Without an Ultrasound First?

If you are considering the abortion pill after an unexpected pregnancy, you may wonder whether an ultrasound is necessary first. Though a positive pregnancy test indicates a potential pregnancy, only an ultrasound provides the information needed to help determine your options and protect your health.

At CareNet Pregnancy Center of Paradise, we offer free, confidential pregnancy services, including limited obstetrical ultrasound scans, to help you make a decision. Schedule an appointment today to learn about your pregnancy and options.

In the meantime, keep reading to learn what an ultrasound will tell you, and why it’s needed before a decision.

Confirm How Far Along You Are

The FDA has approved the abortion pill through 10 weeks of gestation. It is not approved for pregnancies beyond that point.

If your periods are irregular, you do not remember when your last period began, or your estimated dates are uncertain, an ultrasound can provide a more reliable estimate of how far along you are.

Determine Where the Pregnancy Is Located

The abortion pill is intended for a pregnancy located inside the uterus. It does not treat an ectopic pregnancy, which develops outside the uterus and can become life-threatening without prompt medical care.

An ultrasound can help determine the pregnancy’s location, adding another way for you to make an informed decision and safeguard your health.

Learn Whether the Pregnancy Is Progressing

A positive test detects the hormone hCG, but it cannot show what is occurring inside the uterus. An ultrasound may help determine whether the pregnancy appears to be developing or if you have miscarried.

As many as 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, and in some cases, medical follow-up may be needed to prevent complications.

Receiving these details via an ultrasound does not commit you to any pregnancy decision, but it does give you a clearer understanding of your health before moving forward.

Get Answers Before Your Next Step

At CareNet Pregnancy Center of Paradise, you can receive free pregnancy testing and learn whether you qualify for a limited obstetrical ultrasound scan. Our team also provides confidential options education so you can ask questions and be sure you understand what each option entails.

Schedule your appointment today.

Care Net Pregnancy Center of Paradise does not provide or refer for abortions.

All abortion information in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.