Suppose you’re pregnant and considering an abortion. In that case, there are three things you need to do to ensure your health before scheduling your appointment: get an ultrasound, take an STD test, and review your medical history with a professional.
Read on to learn why these steps are essential and how they safeguard your health. And if you need to talk to someone in person or have questions, contact Cornerstone Women’s Resource Center to speak to one of our caring team members.
1. Get an Ultrasound
An ultrasound is a harmless scan that can reveal critical information you need to stay healthy and move forward—no matter your decision about your pregnancy.
An ultrasound can help determine the pregnancy’s location and viability (health) and rule out ectopic pregnancy (a life-threatening condition that needs urgent treatment). It can also help establish the age of the pregnancy, which is essential if you’re considering abortion.
2. Take an STD Test
Abortion is riskier and not advised if you have an active STD infection. The CDC recommends testing all pregnant women for STDs to avoid potentially serious complications.
Testing for STDs involves getting a swab, blood, or urine sample (depending on the STD you’re being tested for).
If the test detects an active STD, it’s essential to receive treatment promptly.
3. Review Your Medical History
Certain conditions, medications, or situations make an abortion unsafe and not recommended. This is why it’s vital to discuss your medical history with a qualified medical professional to determine if abortion is an option for your situation.
Some key things that make abortion riskier and ill-advised include, but aren’t limited to:
- Having anemia or a bleeding disorder
- Having an intrauterine device (IUD) in place
- Experiencing an ectopic pregnancy
It’s also unsafe to get an abortion if you don’t have access to emergency medical care or the ability to follow up with a qualified physician.
More Questions?
Deciding what to do next in your pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At Cornerstone Women’s Resource Center, we offer free pregnancy resources that can help you decide what next steps to take. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment in a non-judgmental environment. We’re here for you.