Is Abortion Legal in Mississippi?
Currently, you are unable to legally obtain the abortion pill or have a surgical abortion from a provider within the state of Mississippi. However, exceptions can be made to save the life of the pregnant woman or in cases of rape. If you or someone you know obtains these services outside of Mississippi, they will not be arrested or go to jail if they have complications and need medical care within the state.
Why Do I Need an Ultrasound?
You may be wondering why you’d want an ultrasound, especially if you’re thinking about terminating the pregnancy. The answer is that ultrasounds provide the insight needed to make an informed and empowered decision for an unplanned pregnancy! They determine three key things about your pregnancy: viability, gestational age, and location.
What is Pregnancy Viability?
A viable pregnancy means that the pregnancy is progressing properly. For example, at about eleven weeks gestation, the embryo should have a detectable heartbeat[2]. The goal is to rule out a nonviable pregnancy, such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy—in either case, abortion isn’t needed.
What is Gestational Age?
How far along am I? Your ultrasound can answer that question! It’s important to know how far along you are (also known as your gestational age), as you can’t take the abortion pill past 10 weeks of pregnancy[3]. If you’re considering traveling out of state for an abortion, be aware that the surrounding areas may have gestational age limitations as well.
Where is the Pregnancy Located?
Normally, fertilized eggs implant and develop inside the uterus. However, in rare cases, an egg can implant outside of the uterus, such as in a fallopian tube or on an ovary. This is known as an ectopic pregnancy and is a life-threatening medical emergency. The fertilized egg can’t survive and the growing tissue could cause a rupture if left untreated.
Thankfully, most ectopic pregnancies are discovered by ultrasound before a rupture occurs[4]. It’s crucial to get an ultrasound so you can prevent a rupture and the need for emergency surgery!
Consider receiving a free ultrasound at 1st Steps Clinic! If your ultrasound determines that you’re too far along to take the abortion pill, our compassionate patient 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 Starkville, Mississippi
No matter where you are in your unplanned pregnancy journey, you aren’t alone! Our team is 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 (662) 324-7011 or schedule an appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge!
1st Steps Clinic does not have abortion providers in our network and cannot speak to the level of care you would receive from them. So, we do not refer to abortion providers or perform abortion procedures.
