What Is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill, also known as medication abortion, consists of two different abortion pills that terminate the pregnancy. Only women up to 10 weeks of pregnancy are eligible for the abortion pill. An ultrasound is the only way to accurately confirm how far along you are in your pregnancy and that the pregnancy is viable. It is also required in the state of Ohio prior to any abortion procedure, including the abortion pill. The first abortion pill, Mifepristone, blocks the progesterone hormone and causes the lining of the uterus to thin, and stops the embryo from staying implanted or growing. The second abortion pill, Misoprostol, makes the uterus contract and releases the embryo through the vagina. Many women think this process is as easy as taking a pill, and it’s over. Unfortunately, it’s not quite that simple.

How do I know if I am pregnant?

If you have had unprotected sex or experienced a failure of birth control and are having symptoms such as a late or missed period, tender or swollen breasts, fatigue, food cravings, aversions or nausea, you may be pregnant. Your first step in confirming your pregnancy is to receive a lab-quality pregnancy test followed up by an obstetrical ultrasound. We offer these tests and more free of charge at Ivy Women’s Center.

When should I take a pregnancy test?

When you become pregnant, your body will begin to produce the pregnancy hormone, known as hCG. It may take up to a week after a missed period for your body to produce enough of this hormone to be detected by a home pregnancy test. The best time to take a pregnancy test and obtain the most accurate results is 1-2 weeks after a missed period.

Why is it important to be tested for an STD while pregnant?

Left untreated, an STD can carry serious health risks, especially through a pregnancy. Regardless of the decisions you make about your pregnancy, it’s important to be tested and treated if an infection is present. This testing and treatment will help to prevent conditions such as Pelvic Inflammatory Disease and other serious complications to your long term reproductive health. Testing is quick and convenient, taking place during the same appointment as your consultation.

Is abortion legal in Ohio?

Yes. Abortion is legal in Ohio with the following restrictions, which are in place for the protection and safety of women: Women must receive state-mandated counseling at least 24 hours prior to having an abortion procedure. FDA protocols must be followed when providing a medical abortion Parental consent is required for minors prior to an abortion Women must receive an ultrasound prior to an abortion Abortions after 22 weeks of gestation are only available when the woman’s life is in danger.

Can I order the abortion pill online in Ohio?

Ohio state law and the FDA protocols require a doctor’s prescription for the abortion pill. This law is in place to protect women from potentially harmful pills ordered online and to make sure the abortion pill is taken within the correct window of time during the pregnancy (prior to 10 weeks).

Is it important to have an ultrasound?

Once a positive result is received on your lab-quality pregnancy test, the next step is to have a limited ultrasound. An ultrasound is not only required if you are considering an abortion, but it will also reveal important information about the pregnancy that is crucial to your health and safety. It will also help determine what type of abortion procedure is available to you.

Should I Get an Ultrasound Before Abortion?

If you are considering abortion in Ohio, getting an ultrasound can provide important medical information about your pregnancy. An ultrasound can help confirm how far along you are, whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus, and whether there are any health concerns that may affect your next steps. Ivy Women’s Center in Mentor, OH, offers free limited ultrasounds and a confidential place to ask questions and receive medically accurate pregnancy information.

Why an Ultrasound Matters

An ultrasound helps provide medically accurate information about your pregnancy. This information can help you better understand your next steps and available options.

An ultrasound can:

Confirm whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus
Estimate how far along the pregnancy is
Identify medical conditions that may require additional follow-up
Provide important pregnancy details as you consider your next steps

What Happens Before an Abortion Appointment?

Step 1: Confirm the Pregnancy

A medical-grade pregnancy test can help confirm pregnancy hormones.

Step 2: Get an Ultrasound

An ultrasound provides important pregnancy information, including gestational age and pregnancy location.

Step 3: Learn About Your Options

An abortion consultation can help you understand timelines, available options in Ohio, and what to expect physically.

You can learn more here: What to Expect at Your Abortion Consultation

What If I’m Still Unsure?

Many women feel overwhelmed or uncertain after discovering an unexpected pregnancy. Getting an ultrasound does not commit you to any decision. It simply provides information about your pregnancy so you can better understand what comes next.

Free Pregnancy Ultrasounds Near Mentor, Ohio

If you are searching for a free pregnancy ultrasound near Mentor or Northeast Ohio, Ivy Women’s Center provides:

Free pregnancy testing
Free limited obstetric ultrasounds
Care from licensed medical professionals
Confidential appointments
A calm, supportive environment

Our goal is to help you receive clear medical information about your pregnancy in a calm, supportive environment.

Taking the Next Step

If you are considering abortion, an ultrasound can help you move forward with more clarity and confidence. You do not have to figure everything out today.

Ivy Women’s Center offers free pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and confidential pregnancy consultations in Mentor, Ohio.

Make an Appointment

FAQs About Ultrasounds Before Abortion

Why is an ultrasound important before abortion?

An ultrasound can help confirm how far along the pregnancy is, determine whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus, and identify important pregnancy details before making a decision.

Can you get the abortion pill without an ultrasound in Ohio?

Requirements can vary by provider. However, many women choose to receive an ultrasound first to better understand their pregnancy and confirm gestational age.

Where can I get a free ultrasound near Mentor, OH?

Ivy Women’s Center in Mentor offers free limited obstetric ultrasounds and medical-grade pregnancy testing at no cost.

Do I need a positive pregnancy test before an ultrasound?

At Ivy Women’s Center, pregnancy testing is typically completed before an ultrasound to help confirm pregnancy hormones and determine the next appropriate steps for your appointment.

Should I Get an Ultrasound Before Getting an Abortion?