Why an early ultrasound matters—especially before taking abortion pills

Free ultrasound services in Harrisonburg, Virginia

When facing an unintended pregnancy, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. At AVA Care, we believe information empowers. Whether you’re considering abortion or simply want to understand your options, getting a confirmation ultrasound is one of the most important first steps you can take.
We’re a nonprofit medical clinic in Harrisonburg, operating under the supervision of a licensed Medical Director. All of our medical services are provided by licensed healthcare professionals who care deeply about your health and well-being. Through our holistic approach, we advocate for you, validate your concerns, and provide answers to your questions. 

Why should I get an ultrasound before an abortion?

Even if you’re planning to take the abortion pill, an ultrasound may be required by telehealth providers before prescribing the medication. Here’s why:

1. It’s vital to know how far along you are in your pregnancy.

Abortion methods differ based on how far along you are in your pregnancy. The abortion pill is only FDA-approved for up to ten weeks gestation. An ultrasound can accurately measure the gestational age and help determine your eligibility for different options.

2. In order to rule out an ectopic pregnancy. 

Sometimes a pregnancy develops outside the uterus, typically in a fallopian tube. This is called an ectopic pregnancy, and it can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Abortion pills will not treat this condition. An ultrasound confirms the location of your pregnancy to ensure your safety.

3. It’s important to confirm viability. 

An ultrasound can detect whether your pregnancy is progressing normally and check for a fetal heartbeat. If there’s no heartbeat or development, you may be having a miscarriage and could avoid a procedure that isn’t medically necessary.

Free and confidential ultrasounds in Virginia

At AVA Care, we provide confirmation ultrasounds at no cost to you. Our medical and patient services team will walk you through each step—providing information, compassion, and holistic care without judgment. Whether you're exploring abortion, parenting, or adoption, we’re here to help you make an informed decision.

Schedule your appointment today

If you think you might be pregnant, don’t wait. Schedule an ultrasound today to confirm your pregnancy and learn more about your options. We're here for you—no matter what you decide. 
June 11, 2025
Understanding abortion laws in Virginia Navigating reproductive health care can feel overwhelming, especially as laws and regulations vary from state to state. In Virginia, abortion remains legal with certain restrictions in place. Whether you're seeking information for yourself or someone you care about, understanding the current legal landscape can support informed and confident decision-making. If you’re considering abortion , AVA Care of Harrisonburg provides ultrasound services and information on abortion at no cost to you. Current abortion laws in Virginia Abortion is legal in Virginia, but it is subject to some restrictions. The following policies are currently in effect: Abortion is prohibited in the third trimester, except when continuation of the pregnancy is likely to result in the death of the pregnant individual or substantially impair their physical or mental health, as certified by physicians. Parental consent and parental notice are required for minors seeking an abortion. State Medicaid coverage of abortion is limited and only available in specific circumstances, such as when the pregnancy endangers the life of the individual or results from rape or incest. Qualified health care professionals, including certain advanced practice clinicians, are permitted by state law to provide abortion care—not just physicians. Virginia law includes patient privacy protections for individuals seeking reproductive health services. Miscarriage care is not the same as abortion care It’s important to clarify that abortion laws or policies do not restrict access to medical care for miscarriage. A miscarriage, also known as spontaneous pregnancy loss, is medically and legally distinct from abortion. Miscarriage care remains fully legal and available across the state. Unfortunately, misinformation has led some to believe that access to emergency care for miscarriage may be affected by abortion laws. This is not the case. Miscarriage can involve serious health risks, and hospitals and medical providers are both equipped and permitted to offer the necessary care. If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of a miscarriage, it’s essential to seek medical attention without delay. Parental consent and provider guidelines Minors seeking an abortion in Virginia must have both parental consent and parental notice. However, if you are under 18 and unsure of your next steps, know that you can still receive confidential support from AVA Care in Harrisonburg, Virginia. We provide services such as pregnancy testing , confirmation ultrasound, and STI testing at no cost to you. Parental consent is not required for our services. We are here to advocate for you, validate your concerns, and provide answers to your questions. Informed consent Understanding your rights and responsibilities under state law is a crucial part of informed consent. Whether someone chooses to carry a pregnancy to term, explore adoption, or seek an abortion, access to clear, accurate information is essential. We offer compassionate and confidential services before abortion in Harrisonburg, Virginia. If you're considering your options, we are here to support you—no matter what you decide. Schedule an appointment today If you think you may be pregnant and want to understand your options, AVA Care of Harrisonburg is here to help. Our compassionate medical and patient services team is here to support you with holistic care so you can make an informed decision for your pregnancy. Schedule your appointment today and explore your options in a safe, nonjudgmental environment.
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