If you are pregnant and considering your options, your first step should be to arm yourself with the information you need to prioritize your health and safety. Three things you need to ensure your safety are:
- Pregnancy Test
- Ultrasound
- Options Counseling
Pregnancy Testing
Everything can feel like a pregnancy symptom when you think you are pregnant. However, if there is a chance that you are pregnant and you have missed your period, you should take a pregnancy test to find out for sure. When used correctly, pregnancy tests are very accurate. To ensure that you have an accurate result, use these tips:
- Read all the instructions included in the test.
- Test a week after your missed period.
- Test first thing in the morning.
- Do not apply too much urine to the test.
- Do not read the test after the time frame specified in the instructions.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound is a crucial step in the abortion process. If you receive a positive pregnancy test result, schedule an ultrasound to confirm, date, and locate your pregnancy. This gives your medical team valuable information to diagnose pregnancy complications and recommend the appropriate procedure.
- Confirming the pregnancy is essential to ensure that your pregnancy is viable (growing with a heartbeat.) Around 20% of pregnancies end spontaneously through miscarriage. Some women experiencing miscarriages do not need medical intervention. If you experience a miscarriage, you should be evaluated by a medical professional to make sure all of the pregnancy passes without complication.
- Dating the pregnancy assists the provider in recommending a procedure that is safest for your pregnancy. For example, the abortion pill is only FDA-approved for pregnancies under 10 weeks.
- The location of your pregnancy can also change the intervention recommended for you. Sometimes, embryos implant outside of the uterus, resulting in an ectopic pregnancy. This is a serious, life-threatening condition and requires intervention immediately to resolve it. Abortion does not treat ectopic pregnancy.
Options Counseling
Before an abortion, an appointment with an options counselor can empower you to make the best decision for you. Fear and panic can be in the driver’s seat when you are facing an unexpected pregnancy. Talking with a professional about your options and concerns can provide you with the information you need to choose an outcome for your pregnancy that leaves you with confidence.
Let Us Help
For more information on your pregnancy options, contact us to schedule a free appointment.