If you are considering abortion for your unplanned pregnancy, there are three things you need to do first. Verifying you are pregnant with an accurate pregnancy test and an ultrasound is essential. You should also get tested for an STI and look at all your options to make a confident, empowered decision for your future.
Why Do I Need to Verify My Pregnancy?
Did you know it is possible to get a positive result on a pregnancy test and no longer be pregnant? The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) estimates that as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage. You need to verify your pregnancy is growing.
Most miscarriages happen early in pregnancy, sometimes before a woman even realizes she is pregnant. If you have miscarried, there is no need to visit an abortion provider.
According to the FDA, a pregnancy test can detect the hCG hormone 12 to 15 days after ovulation. After a miscarriage, your body takes a while to return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels, so depending on when you take the test, you could receive a positive result even though you’re no longer pregnant.
What Should I Do?
A missed period is usually the first sign of pregnancy. We recommend taking a pregnancy test after you’ve missed a period. Even if you have taken a home pregnancy test, take a second test for confirmation.
At PCS Health, we offer free and confidential pregnancy testing. We can help you get an accurate result. If it is positive, it’s time for an ultrasound.
Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound is essential to learn three important things:
- Ultrasound is the best way to tell if you have miscarried or your pregnancy is growing, with a detectable heartbeat.
- You can find out how far along you are in your pregnancy, determining the abortion procedure you qualify for.
- Ultrasound reveals the location of your pregnancy. It could be a potentially life-threatening health issue if it is not in your uterus.
PCS Health provides a free and confidential ultrasound to confirm your pregnancy.
I Don’t Have Symptoms. Why Would I Test for an STI?
It is possible to have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and not have symptoms. Without obvious signs, many people avoid testing, but getting tested regularly ensures you protect your sexual health before long-term effects take place.
We test for gonorrhea and chlamydia, two of the most common STIs. If your test is positive, we can treat you the same day. According to the CDC, “chlamydia is easily cured but can make it difficult to get pregnant if left untreated.” Untreated gonorrhea can cause serious health problems too.
Do I Have Options?
You do have options for your unplanned pregnancy. We can discuss all three. Set up an appointment with one of our compassionate team members. Our medical professionals are ready to answer your questions and provide the pregnancy information you need to make a confident decision. Schedule your appointment online today.