A late period and a positive pregnancy test indicate the possibility of pregnancy, but there is a lot more to know. If you want to protect your health, only a limited obstetrical ultrasound can give you the answers you need.
For instance, even though your pregnancy test is positive, there is a chance you’re no longer pregnant. Miscarriages are more common than many realize. You could get a positive test result and no longer be pregnant.
A limited ultrasound will tell you whether or not you’ve miscarried and provide other vital information about your pregnancy. Read on to learn more about why you need an ultrasound before an abortion. Or schedule an appointment to learn more at Elevate by calling or texting us at (320) 252-4150, or filling out our private contact form.
Do You Know Exactly How Far Along You Are in Your Pregnancy?
The abortion procedure you qualify for is often determined by the number of weeks and days you’ve been pregnant. The FDA approves the drugs for a medical abortion (the abortion pill method) only through 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Some women use period tracker apps to keep track of their monthly cycles, but research suggests the apps give conflicting information. If you keep track of your period on a calendar, you may have more reliable information than not, but a calendar doesn’t reveal ovulation (when you’re most likely to get pregnant).
An ultrasound takes measurements to determine how far along you are in your pregnancy. It’s the most accurate way to date your pregnancy.
Why Is It Important to Know Where Your Pregnancy Is Located?
Although rare, some pregnancies develop outside of the uterus. These are known as ectopic pregnancies.
A fertilized egg cannot develop normally outside of the uterus. If your pregnancy is ectopic, the area where it is located can burst, causing life-threatening internal bleeding.
The only way to determine if a pregnancy is ectopic is through an ultrasound.
Are You Still Pregnant?
According to research, it’s estimated that 10 to 20% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. The number could actually be as high as 30%.
Because it takes a woman’s body time to return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels, it’s possible to get a positive pregnancy test result days or even weeks after a miscarriage.
Only an ultrasound can determine if your pregnancy is developing or if you have had a miscarriage.
How Can Elevate Help Me?
If you’re considering an abortion for your unexpected pregnancy, we recommend getting a limited obstetrical ultrasound first. An ultrasound protects your health and helps you get the facts about your pregnancy you need to stay safe.
You’re not alone in this. Contact Elevate Pregnancy and Family Resource Center today. We’re here to give you factual medical information about all abortion procedures so you can be prepared.
*Elevate does not perform or refer for abortion.
**All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.