Do I need an ultrasound?
Information is empowering. A first-trimester ultrasound provides very important information about your body and your pregnancy that may affect your options, including:
- location of the pregnancy. Locating the embryo/fetus in the uterus and not in the fallopian tubes (which can be a life-threatening emergency)
- if the embryo/fetus has a heartbeat
- what your estimated due date is, based on the size the embryo/fetus is measuring
There is no cost for your ultrasound. Your ultrasound will be performed by a registered nurse who has undergone specialized ultrasound training. The information you learn in this appointment (such as how far along you are) will guide you further as you make your pregnancy decisions, such as what abortion procedures are available to you.
You are welcome to bring a support person to your appointment with you, but your conversations with the nurse and your medical history will be kept confidential.
These ultrasounds are provided under the direction and supervision of a licensed physician for the purposes of determining gestational age, checking for heartbeat, and making sure it’s an intrauterine pregnancy.