Before having an elective abortion, it’s important to confirm that you are pregnant and know what type of procedure you qualify for. To better understand your health, get these three screenings before having a medical or surgical abortion. Keep reading to learn what steps you may want to consider and how they help protect your health.
Lab-Quality Pregnancy Testing
If you are basing your concerns on symptoms such as a missed period, excessive fatigue, or even nausea, it’s important to realize that these can be caused by conditions other than pregnancy. Taking a pregnancy test will help you verify things first.
Before you take a test, consider waiting at least a day after your first missed period so that your body can produce hCG, a pregnancy hormone, at detectable levels.
If you are worried about timing it right or the possibility of an inaccurate result, visit us for medical-grade pregnancy testing at no cost.
Ultrasound
A positive pregnancy test indicates pregnancy, but an ultrasound can confirm it and provide crucial health details.
An ultrasound can confirm the progression and location of a pregnancy, which impacts your health and the type of abortion procedure you are eligible for.
Progression of Pregnancy
Many pregnancies end in natural miscarriage (and can result in positive pregnancy tests as well). An abortion is not the correct procedure for a miscarriage, so it’s important to know the status of your pregnancy so you can take the appropriate steps to receive care.
In addition, abortion procedures vary based on how long a woman has been pregnant. For example, the FDA advises that the abortion pill should not be taken if you are more than 70 days pregnant. A medical professional can confirm the duration of pregnancy with an ultrasound.
Location of Pregnancy
Ultrasounds can also determine whether or not the pregnancy is ectopic. An ectopic pregnancy is located outside the uterus and can be dangerous and even life-threatening.
Medical treatment other than abortion may be necessary in this case.
Our nurses provide ultrasounds at no cost so you can be safe.
STD Testing
Whether or not you are experiencing symptoms of an STD, consider getting tested so that you can get treatment, if necessary, before having an elective abortion. It is possible to be asymptomatic and still be a carrier of an STD.
If you have an untreated STD and receive an abortion, this could increase your risk for complications, including Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.
Free Medical Screenings in Chester County, PA
We are here to support you and help you take steps to care for your reproductive health.
Reach out to us today to schedule your appointment!