Yes! As with any medical intervention, there are risks to consider when getting an abortion. Many of these risks are related to the gestational age of your pregnancy (how far along it is). Certain types of abortion, like chemical abortion- also known as the abortion pill- are only FDA-approved through 10 weeks. Taking abortion pills for a pregnancy that is greater than 10 weeks can be dangerous, and include increased risks for incomplete abortion, infection, fever and more. These risks to your health can be reduced by verifying the gestational age of your pregnancy by an ultrasound.
Another important reason you need an ultrasound before an abortion is to verify the pregnancy is located in the proper place and is viable. A viable pregnancy will be implanted in the uterus and begins to have a heartbeat around 6 weeks. A pregnancy that is not in the uterus, but is instead implanted in the fallopian tubes is a medical emergency known as an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy can be diagnosed by ultrasound. This type of pregnancy remains unchanged by the abortion pills, mifepristone and misoprostol, and can lead to the rupture of the fallopian tube, which is life-threatening.
Your health and safety are important. This is why getting an ultrasound to verify gestational age and location of pregnancy is so important to your health. Reach out today and we will connect you with a pregnancy care center where you can get an ultrasound at absolutely no cost.
