Before Abortion Pills, Check for Ectopic Pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy happens when a pregnancy grows outside the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy cannot continue and can become life-threatening if not treated early. This happens in about 1 in 50 pregnancies. Learn more about ectopic pregnancies, including signs, symptoms and risk factors here .
In order to check for ectopic pregnancy and find out what is actually going on in your body, everyone who is pregnant should get a confirmation ultrasound. This is especially important if you are thinking about taking the abortion pill.
Here’s why:
- The abortion pill does not end or treat an ectopic pregnancy.
- The abortion pill can cause bleeding and pelvic pain, which are the same symptoms as an ectopic pregnancy.
- Ectopic pregnancies often cause these symptoms at 6–8 weeks, which is the same time many people take medication abortion.
Because the abortion pill symptoms are similar, it can be hard to know if you have an ectopic pregnancy. If symptoms like bleeding or pelvic pain are mistaken for normal abortion pill side effects, it can delay your emergency treatment.
Checking with an ultrasound before taking the abortion pill is crucial. It:
- Confirms the pregnancy is in the uterus
- Helps avoid unnecessary worry or extra medical procedures/costs
- Keeps you safe by catching an ectopic pregnancy early
Time matters with ectopic pregnancy. If you have bleeding or pain, seek care right away.
Thrive Medical Clinic in Traverse City, Michigan, offers no-cost and confidential ultrasounds. Our licensed sonographer will check for ectopic pregnancy, viability and confirm how far along your pregnancy is. You don’t have to wonder if you might have an ectopic pregnancy before, during or after an abortion. We can help you know for sure.
