Why You Need an Ultrasound Before Abortion in Tennessee

Is Abortion Legal in Tennessee?

Currently, abortion is illegal in Tennessee. However, exceptions can be made to save the life of the mother. Additionally, women who receive abortions will not be prosecuted under Tennessee law.[1]

We strongly recommend receiving an ultrasound before an abortion. Keep reading to find out why.

Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?

You may be wondering why you’d want an ultrasound, especially if you’re considering abortion. The answer is that ultrasounds provide the insight needed to make an informed decision for an unplanned pregnancy. They determine two key things about your pregnancy: viability and gestational age.

What is Pregnancy Viability?

A viable pregnancy means that, in the early stages, growth and development are progressing as expected. For example, after about 6 weeks gestation, the embryo’s heartbeat can be detected by an ultrasound.[2] 

This is critical information because a significant number of pregnancies end on their own in miscarriage.[3] The ultrasound also can show if the pregnancy is inside the uterus. A small number of pregnancies form outside the uterus, known as ectopic pregnancy. Not only can ectopic pregnancies be life-threatening, but the abortion pill doesn’t treat them[4]—in either case, abortion is no longer an option to consider.

What is Gestational Age?

Gestational age refers to how far along you are in your pregnancy. It’s important to know your gestational age since the abortion pill is only FDA-approved for up to 10 weeks from your last menstrual period.[5] If you’re considering traveling out of state for an abortion, be aware that the surrounding areas may have gestational age limitations as well.

Free Ultrasounds in Cookeville, Tennessee

No matter where you are in your unplanned pregnancy journey, you aren’t alone. Our medical staff is here to provide the support and vital information needed to make an informed decision.

Don’t wait to get the care you deserve. Give us a call at (931) 593-5112 or schedule your appointment online today. 

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. 

Other Related Articles

Sources

1. Human Life Protection Act. Tennessee General Assembly. (2022, June). Retrieved from https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1029&GA=111 
2. Männer, J. (2022, June 9). When Does the Human Embryonic Heart Start Beating? A Review of Contemporary and Historical Sources of Knowledge about the Onset of Blood Circulation in Man. Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9225347/# 
3. Mayo Clinic. (2023, September 8). Miscarriage – Symptoms and Causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes/syc-20354298
4. FDA. (2023, September 1). Questions and Answers on Mifeprex. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifeprex  
5. Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2023, March 23). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information