Facing an unexpected pregnancy is difficult enough, but when your partner pressures you to make a quick decision, it’s even more stressful. The most important thing to remember is that only you have the right to decide what you want to do.
No one can force you to make one choice over another. You’re smart to follow your feelings. Having an abortion is a serious decision, and you owe it to yourself to get as much information about your pregnancy and options as possible.
The team at PCS Health can help you with both. We provide free and confidential pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and STI testing. These steps are essential before having an abortion. We can also discuss all of your options. Schedule a free and confidential appointment with us today.
Why Would I Need an Ultrasound?
If you are considering an abortion, you may feel an ultrasound is a waste of time, but it provides critical information you need. Here are three reasons why you should get an ultrasound beforehand:
1. How Far Along You Are Determines Your Abortion Procedure
Abortion providers determine the type of abortion based on the number of weeks and days of pregnancy. The FDA approves the use of abortion drugs (the abortion pill method) up to 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Providers perform surgical procedures using suction or vacuum aspiration through the first trimester. Once in your second trimester, a more invasive procedure is necessary. Do you know exactly how far along you are?
Many women are unsure as to when they actually got pregnant. An ultrasound can determine the number of weeks and days of pregnancy.
2. The Location of Your Pregnancy Is Critical
Some pregnancies form outside of the uterus. These pregnancies are known as ectopic. Only the uterus is meant to hold a growing pregnancy.
If your pregnancy is ectopic, it can be extremely dangerous, even life-threatening. You need to seek immediate medical attention with your health care provider if an ectopic pregnancy is suspected.
3. Knowing If Your Pregnancy Is Developing or You’ve Miscarried
Experts estimate that as many as 26% of all pregnancies end in a miscarriage. Many miscarriages occur before a woman realizes she’s pregnant. However, you can still get a positive pregnancy test result days or even weeks following a miscarriage.
By determining if there is a detectable heartbeat, an ultrasound indicates whether your pregnancy is developing or if you’ve had a miscarriage.
Why Would I Need STI Testing?
Many STIs have no signs or symptoms, but left untreated, they can cause serious health risks. The CDC states that pregnant women should ask their doctors to test for STIs.
Sexually active women 25 years and older and pregnant women should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year, or starting early in pregnancy.
At PCS Health, we provide free and confidential testing and treatment for both gonorrhea and chlamydia.
No One Has the Right to Pressure You
We’re sorry you’re feeling pressured by your partner. The best scenario is when the two of you can work together to make a confident decision.
So many women resent their partners after being forced to abort. Schedule an appointment at PCS Health. We can verify your pregnancy with testing and an ultrasound. Additionally, we offer free and confidential STI testing to protect your health and well-being.
We are here for you. Schedule an appointment at PCS Health today. With more information comes the ability to make confident decisions for your future.