Currently, abortion is legal up until viability in California[1]. However, we strongly recommend receiving an ultrasound before an abortion. Keep reading to find out why.
You may be wondering why you’d want an ultrasound, especially if you’re considering abortion. The answer is that ultrasounds provide the insight needed to make an informed and empowered decision for a pregnancy. They determine two key things about your pregnancy: viability and gestational age.
A viable pregnancy means that, in the early stages, growth and development are progressing as expected. For example, after about 6 weeks gestation, the embryo’s heartbeat can be detected by an ultrasound[2].
This is critical information because a significant percentage of pregnancies end on their own in miscarriage[3]. The ultrasound also can show if the pregnancy is inside the uterus. A small number of pregnancies form outside the uterus, known as ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies are not viable. Not only can they be life-threatening, but the abortion pill doesn’t treat them[4]—in either case, abortion is no longer an option to consider.
Gestational age refers to how far along you are in your pregnancy. It’s important to know your gestational age) since the abortion pill is only FDA-approved for up to 10 weeks from your last menstrual period[5].
Consider requesting a free ultrasound at Alternatives Medical Clinic. We’ll start with a free pregnancy test, and then evaluate your eligibility for a free ultrasound. Ultrasounds are considered a medical procedure, so you must be evaluated by a medical professional before the scan can be done. If your ultrasound determines that you’re too far along to take the abortion pill, our compassionate nurses will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the best choice for your health and future.
Please be aware that Alternatives Medical Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services.
No matter where you are in your pregnancy journey, you aren’t alone. Our nurses and staff are here to provide the support, medical services, and education needed to make an informed decision.
Don’t wait to get the care you deserve. Give us a call at (760) 741-9796 or request your appointment online today.
Please be aware that this article is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Our limited ultrasound examination is strictly for the purposes of confirming your pregnancy diagnosis, detecting fetal cardiac motion, and estimating gestational age. We cannot determine sex or diagnose any medical problems you may be experiencing, pregnancy-related or otherwise.
257 East 2nd Avenue, Escondido, CA 92025 | 760-825-4713
Alternatives does not provide/refer for contraception or abortion.
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