Ultrasound
Why You Need an Ultrasound Before Abortion in Florida
Is Abortion Legal in Florida?
Currently, abortion is illegal in Florida past 6 weeks gestation, when the fetal heartbeat can first be detected by ultrasound. Exceptions can be made in cases of rape, incest, and human trafficking.[1]
We strongly recommend receiving an ultrasound before an abortion. 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. The answer is that ultrasounds provide the insight needed to make an informed and empowered decision for an unplanned pregnancy. They determine two key things about your pregnancy: viability and gestational age.
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 Aspire Womens Clinic. If your ultrasound determines that you’re too far along to take the abortion pill, our compassionate client advocates will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the best choice for your health and future.
Free Ultrasounds in Naples and Fort Myers, FL
No matter where you are in your unplanned pregnancy journey, you aren’t alone. Our ultrasound-trained personnel are here to provide the support and vital information needed to make an informed decision.
Don’t wait to get the care you deserve. Give us a call at (239) 766-5977 or schedule your appointment online today.
Please be aware that this article is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Our limited ultrasound examination is strictly for the purposes of confirming your pregnancy, detecting fetal cardiac activity, and estimating gestational age. We cannot diagnose any medical problems you may be experiencing, pregnancy-related or otherwise. We also cannot confirm the sex of the fetus, but we can refer you to local doctors.
Sources
- The Florida Senate. SB 300: Pregnancy and Parenting Support. (2023, April 14). https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/300
- Männer, J. (2022, June 9). When Does the Human Embryonic Heart Start Beating? A Review of Contemporary and Historical Sources of Knowledge about the Onset of Blood Circulation in Man. Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9225347/#
- Mayo Clinic. (2023, September 8). Miscarriage – Symptoms and Causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes/syc-20354298
- FDA. (2025, February 11). Questions and Answers on Mifeprex. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifeprex
- Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2025, January 17). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information
Education
Resources
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Naples Clinic
13180 Livingston Road
Naples, FL 34109
Call or Text: (239) 766-5977 for information or questions.
Monday to Friday: 9am – 5pm
Saturday - Sunday: Closed
Fort Myers Clinic
4969 Royal Gulf Circle
Fort Myers, FL 33966
Call or Text: (239) 766-5977 for information or questions.
Monday to Friday: 9am – 5pm
Saturday - Sunday: Closed