“This is not happening!” When a pregnancy test is unexpectedly positive, it can bring on feelings of disbelief, shock, and even panic. Maybe you didn’t think you could get pregnant, or you were careful to use condoms or other contraceptives. A pregnancy can happen even with preventative measures, and possibly at the worst time in your life. When you feel like an abortion is your only option, taking the first step and seeking information can be extremely difficult. You likely have a lot of questions, but perhaps you aren’t ready to begin asking about them out loud. Part 1 of this two-part blog series offers a couple important facts about abortion with helpful information as you decide what to do next. Stay tuned for more information in Part 2.
Reading this material may answer only some of the many questions you might have when seeking abortion information. If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and considering abortion, Avenue Women’s Center offers many services to help support your unique needs. Avenue has helped women face unplanned pregnancies for over 30 years with free and confidential consultations to discuss your abortion options and alternatives in a nonjudgmental and compassionate environment. Call, chat, email, or text us to make an appointment at one of our five locations in the DuPage County area.
Fact 1: There are different types of abortion.
The two main options of abortion are either surgical or with medication. A surgical abortion is the most common type of abortion and can involve different types of procedures such as vacuum aspiration, dilation and curettage (D&C), dilation and evacuation (D&E), or labor induction. Surgical abortions typically involve either a local or general anesthesia and include stretching of the cervix to remove the contents of the uterus. A medical abortion, commonly referred to as the “abortion pill,” does not require surgery or anesthesia, but typically involves multiple pills and visits to a health care provider. Some medications that induce abortion are taken orally, while others are inserted into the vagina.
Fact 2: It matters how far along you are.
The types of abortion options available to you largely depend on how far along you are, or the gestational age of your pregnancy. This is determined by counting the number of days and weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period. However, an ultrasound is the most reliable way to learn how far along you are, as well as the viability of your pregnancy (how likely it is to continue or end). The abortion pill is FDA-approved up to 10 weeks gestation, while surgical abortions can take place up to 13 weeks. While it is possible to have a surgical abortion from 13 to 24 weeks, the procedure can pose greater health risks and it can be difficult to find a center that will perform late-term abortions. In general, the farther along your pregnancy is, the more limited your abortion options become, so it is important to learn the facts to make your best decision.
You don’t have to face this tough choice alone. Avenue Women’s Center understands that each woman faces a unique situation and we’re here to offer you the individual help and support you need. It can be overwhelming to research abortion information and the options available to you personally. Our limited medical clinics offer free limited medical ultrasounds to help you learn information on the age and viability of your pregnancy. Contact us today for a free, private consultation with a caring and nonjudgmental staff member to learn more information about abortion and abortion alternatives.
References:
- Women’s Health. (2018, January). 5 Things Every Woman Needs To Know About Abortions. Retrieved from https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19993466/abortion-facts/.
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2015, May) Induced Abortion FAQ043. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Induced-Abortion.
The information provided here is general in nature. It is not a substitute for a consultation with a medical professional. Before any medical procedure, it is imperative that you discuss your personal medical history, risks, and concerns with your doctor. If you have questions during or after a procedure, your doctor should be immediately contacted. Avenue Women’s Center is not an emergency center. If you are experiencing severe symptoms, such as bleeding and/or pain, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your physician, go to an emergency room, or call 911.