If your birth control failed, it’s important to confirm whether you’re actually pregnant and, if so, explore your options in a confidential, pressure-free environment.

We know that thinking about an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming, but help is available. We provide free services in a confidential, nonjudgmental environment.

Keep reading to learn more about what to do next.

Take a Pregnancy Test

Taking a pregnancy test is the best way to get an initial result. Home pregnancy tests are available over the counter at grocery stores and pharmacies. They detect hCG, a hormone produced when the fertilized egg is implanted, and the placenta begins forming.

If you are having common pregnancy symptoms like a missed period or nausea, taking a test can help confirm your suspicions. However, taking that test can still provide an answer if your cycle is irregular or you don’t experience any symptoms.

It’s best to take a pregnancy test at least one week after your missed period or several weeks after sexual intercourse. You can test first thing in the morning, when your urine is most concentrated, to increase the chances of receiving an accurate result.

If you’ve received a positive result, your next step is to have an ultrasound.

Have an Ultrasound

Ultrasounds provide vital information a pregnancy test can’t detect. They’re the only way to confirm your pregnancy and supply essential details for the decision-making process.

This scan detects the following details:

• Viability: Is your pregnancy progressing, and is there a heartbeat? As many as 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, which might require treatment or monitoring.
• Gestational age: How far along are you? Knowing your gestational age is crucial to making a decision. For example, medical abortion is FDA-approved only through 10 weeks gestation.
• Location: Is your pregnancy located in the uterus? Some pregnancies develop in another location, like a fallopian tube or the cervix. This condition is called ectopic pregnancy; it can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment.

After learning about your pregnancy, you can consider your options and learn about each.

Review Your Options

You have three options for your pregnancy: abortion, adoption, and parenting. It’s important to weigh each and consider your specific situation.

Abortion is a significant decision with risks and side effects. You owe it to yourself to get the facts before making any choice.

We’ll help you understand these risks and side effects and learn about parenting and adoption. You’ll receive information about available support and assistance for those options.

We’re here to be an educational resource as you navigate an unexpected pregnancy. Our advocates are ready to listen and support you as you learn about your pregnancy and options.

You Are Not Alone

Seeing that positive test can be overwhelming, but help is available. We provide pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and options education to get you the answers you need.

Make a free and confidential appointment today.

Sound Choices Pregnancy Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions.

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.