3 Reasons You Need an Ultrasound Before an Abortion

November 3, 2025

If you’ve decided to get an abortion, you may wonder if an ultrasound is necessary, especially since it’s possible to order abortion pills online. Actually, an ultrasound is one of the most helpful steps you can take before scheduling any abortion procedure.

Keep reading to find out why.

And if you need an ultrasound, we offer free, limited obstetric ultrasounds, allowing you to make an informed decision with clarity and confidence.

1. Ultrasound Confirms Your Pregnancy Is Developing

A positive home pregnancy test only detects the hormone hCG, which indicates pregnancy—but it doesn’t tell you whether the pregnancy is developing normally.

An ultrasound checks for the presence of a heartbeat and verifies that the pregnancy is progressing; whether or not the pregnancy is growing matters because some pregnancies end naturally in miscarriage. 

If you’ve already miscarried, an abortion would not be necessary, and medical follow-up may be recommended instead to ensure your safety.

2. Ultrasound Determines the Location of the Pregnancy

Ultrasound imaging reveals the location of the pregnancy. Most pregnancies grow inside the uterus, but sometimes a fertilized egg implants elsewhere—usually in a fallopian tube. This is called an ectopic pregnancy, and it requires immediate medical attention.

The abortion pill does not treat an ectopic pregnancy, so confirming the location beforehand is essential to protect your health and avoid serious complications.

3. Ultrasound Provides Accurate Gestational Age

Knowing how far along you are is crucial to understanding the options available and the applicable medical procedures.

The abortion pill, which uses a series of drugs, is only FDA-approved for use through 10 weeks of pregnancy. Beyond that point, surgical abortion is typically required. An ultrasound is the only reliable way to measure gestational age and determine what is medically available for your situation.

Get the Answers You Need

Before you make any decisions, schedule an ultrasound to understand precisely what’s happening with your pregnancy. The results can give you peace of mind and help guide your next step safely. 

At Women’s Care Medical Center, our consultants provide free, confidential pregnancy services and compassionate support to help you make informed decisions about your health.

Schedule your free ultrasound appointment today to get the facts you need before deciding about abortion.

Women’s Care Medical Center does not perform or refer for abortions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an ultrasound hurt?

No, an ultrasound is a painless scan. You may feel some pressure during it, especially if a transvaginal ultrasound is needed early in pregnancy, but it should not be painful.

When will I get the results?

Your nurse or medical professional will review your ultrasound results with you during your appointment. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss how the findings inform your next steps.

Is an ultrasound harmful?

No. Ultrasounds use sound waves—not radiation—to create images, making them safe for both you and your pregnancy. They are widely used in prenatal care and carry no known risks when performed by trained professionals.