When considering an abortion, you may be on what feels like an emotional roller coaster. You may also feel trapped, frustrated, anxious, and afraid. If this is an unexpected pregnancy, these feelings are perfectly normal.
However, it’s important to do your research and not make any impulsive decisions. If you’ve just found out you’re pregnant (or just suspect you are without confirming), read this article for three recommended steps to take.
Get Lab-Quality Pregnancy Testing
It’s important to confirm whether or not you are pregnant so you can move forward with confidence, so schedule a medical-grade pregnancy test offered here at TryLife for no cost.
It’s important to get actual verification instead of relying on an at-home pregnancy test or common pregnancy symptoms such as missed periods, fatigue, sore breasts, etc.
Schedule an Ultrasound
How far along you are in your pregnancy will determine the type of abortion you are eligible for. For example, you cannot take the abortion pill if you are further along than 10 weeks gestation.
If you have taken a positive pregnancy test, your next step is to have an ultrasound, which will confirm how far along you are and if your pregnancy is viable. This also confirms the location of your pregnancy. For example, if it is located outside of the uterus, it is an ectopic pregnancy and poses a serious health risk which requires immediate medical attention.
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, ectopic pregnancies occur in about 1 out of every 50 pregnancies (20 out of 1,000). An ectopic pregnancy is dangerous for your health and should be addressed immediately. It is best to confirm as soon as possible so you can reduce your risk of complications.
Get Screened for STDs
Having an STD while pregnant can pose additional risks to yourself and to the fetus, so if you’re pregnant, it’s important to get tested and seek treatment if necessary. At TryLife, we offer STD screenings at no cost.
Contact us today to get tested, discuss all your options, and learn about available resources or treatment options (if applicable). You’re not alone! We are here to help.