3 Things Needed Before Abortion

3 Things Needed Before Abortion

If you just got that first positive home pregnancy test, are feeling overwhelmed, and are considering abortion, take a moment to take a deep breath. It’s understandable that you may be feeling anxious and unsure of what to do next – but you deserve the best, so take the time to find out the facts about your next steps. 

You can prioritize your health and safety by gathering evidence-based medical information first. At Pregnancy Resource Centers of Central Oregon, we can help answer your questions and support you along the way as you navigate your pregnancy decision. There are a few things you should find out first before making your next plans. 

Get Your Pregnancy Confirmed By a Medical Professional

You probably suspected you might be pregnant and turned to a home pregnancy test for answers – and this is a great place to start. However, you’ll want to get more information before making a medical plan to proceed. 

While it’s a rare occurrence, it is possible to get a false negative on a home pregnancy test. Your results may also vary depending on when you take a home test (as in, how many days past your missed period). Determining where you are in your cycle or if you might be pregnant by the date of your last period can be a helpful tool as a ballpark figure, but it’s not as accurate as getting it confirmed by a medical professional as other factors could affect your cycle. 

Your best bet is to get medical-grade pregnancy confirmation, signed off on by a medical professional. At Pregnancy Resource Centers of Central Oregon, we can provide this service and more at no cost to you. 

You may also need medical documentation for proof-of-pregnancy before your next medical steps. Our medical staff is happy to help with this. 

Learn Your Unique Needs Through an Ultrasound Exam

After your pregnancy is confirmed, there are still a few key pieces of information you should know that could determine what options are available to you. You’ll want to put your health and safety first – and not pursue any medical interventions that are unnecessary or inappropriate for your unique needs. 

For instance, it is estimated that nearly 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage. An ultrasound exam can help you determine if this is a concern for you, and if you might need miscarriage follow-up care instead of abortion care or other medical interventions. 

It is also incredibly important to ensure that the medical route you pursue is safe for your situation. The FDA only approves of the use of the abortion pill for the termination of early pregnancies up to 10 weeks – taking abortion medication past this point in pregnancy could result in incomplete abortion or other complications. 

So, how do you know you’re pursuing the right next steps? An ultrasound exam can help answer key questions, such as: 

  1. If the pregnancy is viable (continuing to grow) or if miscarriage is possible;
  2. If the pregnancy is located in the uterus, or if ectopic pregnancy is a concern; 
  3. How far along you are in pregnancy (and what options might be available to you).

The answers to these questions are vital to know as you pursue your next steps. For example, if ectopic pregnancy is a concern for you, you will need emergency medical attention as soon as possible. 

At our centers, all ultrasound exam results are reviewed by our medical director, a physician who can confirm the pregnancy diagnosis. Then, you can make your next steps with confidence, empowered by medical details about your unique needs to put your health first. 

Learn About Your Options & Ask Questions

These steps to confirm your pregnancy and get key details with the help of a medical professional for in person care are vitally important to protect your health and make sure your next steps are catered to your needs. In addition to this care, you may find it helpful or reassuring to get your questions answered by a medical professional who can walk you through each of your options and help you know what to expect.

At Pregnancy Resource Centers of Central Oregon, we are here to help. Our caring and compassionate staff can help empower you to make a confident, healthy decision, with supportive care and comprehensive information. Schedule a free appointment today to make your next steps with confidence.