March 18, 2026 Before an abortion decision is made, three medical questions must be answered: Is the pregnancy viable? Is it located in the uterus? How far along is it? A pregnancy test cannot answer these. An ultrasound can. At The Legacy Center of Mount Airy, we offer free, confidential services, including lab-quality pregnancy testing and option consultations. While we do not perform ultrasounds on-site, our team can refer you to a trusted medical provider for an ultrasound so you can receive the information you need. Schedule an appointment today to learn more. Here are three important reasons an ultrasound should be your next step. 1. Viability: Is the Pregnancy Continuing? Before abortion is considered, it’s important to determine whether there is an ongoing pregnancy. Miscarriage occurs in an estimated 10–20% of known pregnancies, sometimes before symptoms are obvious. A pregnancy test cannot distinguish between a developing pregnancy and one that has already ended. Because hCG, a pregnancy hormone that the pregnancy detects, may remain present for a period of time, a positive result does not confirm that the pregnancy is progressing. An ultrasound evaluates viability. It allows medical providers to assess whether development is occurring and whether cardiac activity is present. If the pregnancy has already ended in miscarriage, abortion would no longer be part of the discussion, and care would instead focus on your health moving forward. 2. Location: Is the Pregnancy in the Uterus? In approximately 2% of pregnancies, implantation occurs outside the uterus. This condition, known as an ectopic pregnancy, most commonly develops in a fallopian tube. Because a fallopian tube cannot safely sustain continued growth, rupture and internal bleeding can occur if the condition is left untreated. Abortion procedures do not treat or resolve an ectopic pregnancy. An ultrasound identifies the location of the pregnancy, allowing urgent medical concerns to be recognized and addressed promptly. 3. Gestational Age: How Far Along Are You? The stage of pregnancy directly influences medical risk. Abortion pills are FDA-approved for use only through the first 10 weeks of gestation. Beyond that limit, the likelihood of complications increases, including incomplete abortion and significant bleeding that may require further medical care. Relying solely on the date of your last menstrual period can be inaccurate, especially if your cycles are irregular or influenced by stress or hormonal changes. An ultrasound provides a more precise determination of gestational age, so you are not relying on estimates alone. Compassionate Support at The Legacy Center At The Legacy Center, our mission is to provide hope, help, and healing to women facing unexpected pregnancies. You are welcome to bring your boyfriend, friend, or relative to your appointment for support. Our team is here to listen compassionately, provide accurate information, and help you think through your next steps. Reach out to book your free and confidential appointment today. Beginning with reliable information is a wise first step for your health and your future. The Legacy Center of Mount Airy does not provide or refer for abortions.
