Why You Need an Ultrasound Before Abortion
An unexpected pregnancy can send anyone into a panic. We know how overwhelming it can be, but don't let fear make any decisions for you! Make sure you get all the facts on abortion, so you can make an informed and empowered decision!
In this article, we're exploring the Texas abortion law and the importance of ultrasounds in your unexpected pregnancy journey!
Is Abortion Legal in Texas?
All abortion is prohibited and criminalized in Texas, although exceptions can be made if the mother's life is in danger[1].
Even if you intend to travel out of state for an abortion, we still recommend receiving an ultrasound beforehand. Keep reading to learn why!
Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?
You may be wondering why you'd want an ultrasound, especially if you're thinking about terminating the pregnancy. The answer is that ultrasounds provide the insight needed to make an informed and empowered decision for an unexpected pregnancy! They determine two key things about your pregnancy: viability and gestational age.
What is Pregnancy Viability?
A viable pregnancy means that the pregnancy is progressing properly. For example, at about six weeks, the embryo should have a heartbeat[2]. The goal is to rule out a nonviable pregnancy, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy—in either case, abortion isn't needed.
What is Gestational Age?
Gestational age refers to how far along you are in your pregnancy. This is important to know if you intend to travel to another state for an abortion, as the surrounding areas may prohibit abortion beyond a certain amount of weeks. Additionally, you can't take the abortion pill past 10 weeks of pregnancy[3].
Before spending your money only to find out you aren't eligible for abortion, consider receiving a free ultrasound at Pregnancy Help Center of Fort Worth! If your ultrasound determines that you're too far along for abortion, our compassionate client advocates will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the best choice for your health and future!
Free Ultrasounds in Fort Worth, TX
No matter where you are in your unexpected pregnancy journey, you aren't alone! Our compassionate team is here to provide the support and vital information needed to make an informed decision.
Don't wait to get the care you deserve! Give us a call at 817-560-2226 or schedule 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, detecting fetal cardiac activity, and estimating gestational age. We cannot diagnose any medical problems you may be experiencing, pregnancy-related or otherwise. Additionally, we do not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
- HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE CHAPTER 170A. PERFORMANCE OF ABORTION. Texas Constitution and Statutes. (2022, August 25). Retrieved from https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/htm/HS.170A.htm
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, September 3). Slide Show: Fetal Ultrasound. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/multimedia/fetal-ultrasound/sls-20076294?s=3#
- Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2021, December 16). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information
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