Why You Need an Ultrasound Before Abortion in Tennessee

An unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming. If you're considering your options, it's essential to gather all the facts so you can make an informed decision about your health and future.

In this article, we'll cover Tennessee abortion laws and explain why getting an ultrasound is an essential step in your pregnancy decision-making process.

Is Abortion Legal in Tennessee?

Abortions are illegal in Tennessee.[1] Even if you plan on traveling out of state for an abortion, you should first have an ultrasound. 

Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?

If you're considering abortion, an ultrasound provides critical information that helps you understand your pregnancy and available options. Ultrasounds determine two key factors:

1. Pregnancy viability

A viable pregnancy means that the pregnancy is developing normally. For example, an embryo’s heart begins beating between five and six weeks of gestation and can usually be detected via a transvaginal ultrasound around six weeks. [2] An ultrasound helps rule out nonviable pregnancies, such as:

• Miscarriage: When a pregnancy has stopped developing naturally
• Ectopic pregnancy: When a pregnancy develops outside the uterus (a medical emergency)

In these cases, different medical care may be needed.

2. Gestational Age (How Far Along You Are)

Knowing your gestational age is essential because:

• The abortion pill (medication abortion) is only FDA-approved through 10 weeks of pregnancy [3]
• If you're considering traveling out of state, surrounding states may have different abortion laws.

Ultrasounds help you make an informed choice about your pregnancy. 

Free Ultrasounds in Cookeville, Tennessee

At Cookeville Pregnancy Clinic, we offer free pregnancy tests and free limited ultrasounds to help you get the information you need. Our trained staff provide compassionate, judgment-free care in a safe, supportive environment.

Whether you're still deciding or just need answers, we're here to help you explore all your pregnancy options.

Call us at (931) 526-5525 or schedule your appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Do I need an ultrasound before the abortion pill?

It is recommended to have an ultrasound before taking the abortion pill. It confirms that your pregnancy is viable (not ectopic), determines how far along you are (the pill is only approved through 10 weeks), and identifies whether you're carrying a single or multiple pregnancy.

2. Where can I get a free ultrasound before abortion in Cookeville, Tennessee?

Abortion is illegal in Tennessee, but Cookeville Pregnancy Clinic offers free pregnancy tests and free limited ultrasounds. Call us at (931) 526-5525 to schedule your appointment.

3. What happens if my ultrasound shows no heartbeat in Tennessee?

If your pregnancy is not progressing, you may need additional medical care to diagnose and treat a miscarriage. This treatment is legal and available in Tennessee.  

4. What type of ultrasound is used before an abortion?

Most facilities start with a transabdominal ultrasound, where a device is moved across your abdomen. If more detailed imaging is needed—especially in early pregnancy—a transvaginal ultrasound may be recommended for clearer results.

5. How Early Can Pregnancy Be Detected on Ultrasound?

Timing can vary based on individual factors like cycle regularity and body type, but typically:

• Transvaginal ultrasound: Typically detects pregnancy around 5-6 weeks from your last menstrual period.
• Transabdominal ultrasound: Usually detects pregnancy around 6-7 weeks.

Please be aware that this article is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Our limited ultrasound examination is strictly for the purposes of confirming your pregnancy, detecting fetal cardiac activity, and estimating gestational age. We cannot diagnose any medical problems you may be experiencing, pregnancy-related or otherwise. Additionally, we do not provide or refer for abortion services. 

Sources

1. Tennessee State Laws as of November 2025. 
2. Fetal Development. Cleveland Clinic. (2023, March 3). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/7247-fetal-development-stages-of-growth  
3. Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2023, March 23). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information