Ultrasound Importance
Is Abortion Legal in
North Carolina?
At the time of writing (March 2024), abortion is legal in North Carolina up to 12 weeks gestation. However, exceptions can be made through 20 weeks in cases of rape and incest and through 24 weeks for “life-limiting” fetal anomalies. Exceptions can also be made for medical emergencies[1]. You are required to receive an ultrasound before an abortion in North Carolina. Keep reading to find out why.
Is Abortion Legal in
North Carolina?
At the time of writing (March 2024), abortion is legal in North Carolina up to 12 weeks gestation. However, exceptions can be made through 20 weeks in cases of rape and incest and through 24 weeks for “life-limiting” fetal anomalies. Exceptions can also be made for medical emergencies[1]. You are required to receive an ultrasound before an abortion in North Carolina. 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. Ultrasounds provide detailed and accurate information regarding your unique situation. The ultrasound measures gestational age which will determine what procedure you might be eligible for if you choose that route. It also provides location of the pregnancy as well as viability – all important details you will need to evaluate your options.
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.
Consider receiving a free ultrasound at Queen City Pregnancy Resource Center. If your ultrasound determines that you’re too far along to take the abortion pill, our compassionate medical team will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the best choice for your health and future.
Free Ultrasounds in
Charlotte, North Carolina
No matter where you are in your unplanned pregnancy journey, you aren’t alone. Our registered nurses and sonographers are here to provide the support needed to make an informed decision.
Don’t wait to get the care you deserve! Call us at (980) 999-5191, text us at (980) 983-1719 or schedule your appointment online today.
Sources
- SENATE BILL 20 RATIFIED BILL. North Carolina General Assembly. (2023, May 4). https://www.ncleg.gov/Sessions/2023/Bills/Senate/PDF/S20v5.pdf
- Fetal Development. Cleveland Clinic. (2023, March 3). Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/7247-fetal-development-stages-of-growth
- Mayo Clinic. (2023, September 8). Miscarriage – Symptoms and Causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes/syc-20354298
- 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
- Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2021, December 16). 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