Why do I need an ultrasound before my abortion?
If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, you likely have a lot of questions. If you’re considering an abortion, an ultrasound is an important first step. You may wonder: Is it really necessary? The short answer is yes — because an ultrasound provides critical information about your health and your pregnancy.
What kind of information?
Confirms Pregnancy and Its Location
A home pregnancy test detects the hormone hCG, which indicates you may be pregnant. However, home tests can have errors and it does not confirm where the pregnancy is located.
An ultrasound confirms that the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus. This is important because some pregnancies are ectopic, meaning they are outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube. Ectopic pregnancies can be life-threatening and cannot be treated with abortion pills. They require immediate medical care. An ultrasound helps rule this out and protects your health.
Occasionally, a woman can carry twins or more. An ultrasound can detect and rule out multiple pregnancies. It can also confirm whether the pregnancy is ongoing. In some cases, women may have already experienced a miscarriage without realizing it. An ultrasound can detect this and prevent unnecessary procedures.
Determines Gestational Age
Knowing exactly how far along you are (your gestational age) is essential before any abortion.
Different abortion methods are available to you depending on how many weeks pregnant you are. For example, the abortion pill is offered only in early pregnancy. If the pregnancy is further along than expected, it could increase the risk of complications.
Many women are unsure of their exact dates, especially if their cycles are irregular. An ultrasound provides accurate dating so you can understand your options and reduce medical risk.
Protects Your Safety
An ultrasound is not just a formality — it is a medical safeguard. It provides information that cannot be determined through a pregnancy test or symptoms alone. Confirming location, viability, and gestational age ensures that any procedure or medication is appropriate for your specific situation. Your health matters. Taking this step helps you make an informed decision with accurate medical information.
Is an Ultrasound Required in Wisconsin?
The current law in Wisconsin requires that an ultrasound be performed before an abortion, with some exceptions like medical emergencies. The physician is also required to allow you to view the ultrasound image and receive an explanation, but you can decline.
Regardless of legal requirements, the medical reasons for an ultrasound before an abortion remain important. It helps ensure your safety and gives you clarity about your pregnancy so you can make the most informed choice.
If you think you might be pregnant and are considering your options, getting an ultrasound is a wise first step. At Care Net Milwaukee, we offer free and confidential ultrasounds so you can receive accurate information and make a fully informed decision about your health and your future.
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