Ultrasound Importance
Is Abortion Legal in Texas?
Abortion is now illegal in Texas. This will not interfere with care for medical emergencies, such as miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy[1].
If you’re considering traveling out of state for an abortion, we strongly recommend receiving an ultrasound beforehand. Keep reading to find out 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 unplanned pregnancy! They determine three key things about your pregnancy: gestational age, viability, and placement.
What is Gestational Age?
How far along am I? Your ultrasound can answer that question! It’s important to know how far along you are (also known as your gestational age), as you can’t take the abortion pill past 10 weeks of pregnancy[2]. If you’re considering traveling out of state for an abortion, be aware that the surrounding areas may have gestational age limitations as well.
What is Pregnancy Viability?
A viable pregnancy means that the pregnancy is progressing properly. For example, at about six weeks gestation, the embryo should have a detectable heartbeat[3]. The goal is to rule out a nonviable pregnancy, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy—in either case, abortion isn’t needed.
Where is the Pregnancy Located?
Normally, developing embryos are located inside the uterus. However, an ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg is implanted somewhere outside of the uterus, such as in the abdominal cavity or on an ovary. If left untreated, the affected area will rupture, causing heavy bleeding. This is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical treatment.
Thankfully, most ectopic pregnancies are discovered via ultrasound before a rupture occurs[4]. It’s crucial to get an ultrasound so you can prevent a rupture and the need for emergency surgery!
Consider receiving a free ultrasound at Hope Pregnancy Center! If your ultrasound determines that you’re too far along to take the abortion pill, 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 College Station, TX
No matter where you are in your unplanned pregnancy journey, you aren’t
alone! Our trained ultrasound technicians are here to provide the support and
vital information needed to make an informed decision.
Our compassionate team is ready to serve you. Get the facts you need
and the care you deserve at Hope Pregnancy Center. Give us a
call at (979) 695-9193 or schedule your appointment online today!
Sources
- Health and Safety Code Chapter 171. Abortion. Texas Constitution and Statutes. (2021, September 1). https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/pdf/HS.171.pdf
- 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
- Männer, J. (2022, June 9). When Does the Human Embryonic Heart Start Beating? A Review of Contemporary and Historical Sources of Knowledge about the Onset of Blood Circulation in Man. Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9225347/#
- Dvash, Shira, et al. “Increase Rate of Ruptured Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy during the Covid-19 Pandemic.” European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Elsevier B.V., Apr. 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7968738/.