Can You Take The Abortion Pill Without an Ultrasound?

When considering the abortion pill, you may wonder if an ultrasound is really necessary first. It may feel like just another step, but it’s one of the most important ways to protect your health.

An ultrasound provides a clear picture of what’s happening inside your body. It confirms how far along the pregnancy is and where it’s located—two details that are essential for your safety and care.

Finding the Fetus

Abortion pills are generally approved for use in the early stages of pregnancy—up to 10 weeks from the first day of your last period. The FDA authorizes their use for up to 70 days.¹

But an ultrasound goes beyond confirming how far along you are. It also detects whether the pregnancy is developing inside the uterus. If the pregnancy is ectopic (developing outside the uterus), the abortion pill will not work and the condition can be life-threatening if left untreated.

So, while it might feel like an extra appointment, getting an ultrasound first ensures that you’re safe and receiving the right kind of care for your situation.

How the Abortion Pill Works

The abortion pill process, also known as a medication abortion, uses two medications: mifepristone and misoprostol.

Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which is needed for pregnancy to continue.
Misoprostol, taken next, causes the uterus to contract and empty its contents.

This method is typically used within the first 70 days of pregnancy. However, around 10% to 20% of pregnancies naturally end in miscarriage.² That’s why an ultrasound is essential—it confirms that the pregnancy is viable (developing) and located in the uterus.³

Without an ultrasound, it’s impossible to know for sure if the pregnancy is still progressing or if complications like miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy have occurred. Knowing this information is vital before taking abortion medication.

When Not to Use the Abortion Pill

Abortion pills aren’t right for everyone. Certain medical conditions, allergies, or medications may make them unsafe. Only a qualified healthcare professional can determine if this method is appropriate for your health.

Skipping this step—or taking pills without medical oversight—can increase the risk of serious complications.

Assessing Risks and Considerations

Choosing an abortion is a deeply personal decision, but it’s also a medical one that deserves full and accurate information. While many women take abortion pills without complications, some experience:

Incomplete abortion
Heavy or prolonged bleeding
Infection
Severe cramping or, in rare cases, life-threatening events

Having an ultrasound first significantly reduces these risks by confirming that the pregnancy is not ectopic and is within the safe timeframe for medication use.

Without that information, there’s a higher chance of complications and uncertainty about the effectiveness of the abortion process. Knowing the exact gestational age allows you and your provider to make the safest, most informed decision.

Get Help Determining Your Options

If you’re feeling unsure about your pregnancy or considering the abortion pill, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

The Pregnancy Center of Dillon County provides free, confidential care, including:

Our medical team is here to answer your questions, explain what to expect, and help you understand your choices. You deserve to feel informed, supported, and safe—whatever you decide.

Reach out today to schedule a free, confidential appointment. We’re here to help you make the choice that’s right for you.

Sources:

1. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/information-about-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation

2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes

3. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/9704-ultrasound-in-pregnancy