Facing an unplanned pregnancy can be daunting, scary, and overwhelming. If you are unsure of your first steps in making a plan, read this article for recommendations on the next health screenings to take.
Pregnancy Testing
If you have been relying on timing and common pregnancy symptoms such as nausea or fatigue, taking a pregnancy test can eliminate any potential what-ifs and give you more confidence as you make a plan.
Even if you have taken a single at-home pregnancy test, while they are generally highly accurate, one study indicates that up to 5% of pregnancy tests can be misleading. While it may be a negative result, you could, in fact, still be pregnant.
At Women’s Pregnancy Center, we offer no-cost lab-quality pregnancy tests. We also help you calculate the pregnancy test timing based on your last missed period.
Ultrasound
If you have a positive pregnancy test, the most important scan you can take is a first-trimester ultrasound.
It can also alert you to potential health complications such as an ectopic pregnancy.
An ultrasound can confirm the viability of a pregnancy and detect potential complications. According to the National Library of Medicine, up to 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage.
It is important to note that ectopic pregnancies and miscarriages require procedures other than elective abortion. An ultrasound will help you understand your options and make a more informed decision.
STD Testing
It is possible to have an STD but not display any symptoms. If you have an untreated STD and undergo an elective abortion, this could increase your risk for complications.
The good news is that most STDs are very treatable, especially if detected early. At Women’s Pregnancy Resources, we offer no-cost STD testing and can provide referrals if you need treatment.
Next Steps
All of these health screenings and information may seem overwhelming at first. Still, at Women’s Pregnancy Center, we support women with unplanned pregnancies by providing no-cost services, from free ultrasounds to options consultations, to help you confidently choose a path for your future.
