Question 1

Am I pregnant?

Accepted Answer

Maybe your birth control failed. Maybe your period is late, or you think you may be experiencing other pregnancy symptoms such as: frequent urination, nausea, or constant fatigue.

You don’t have to wonder. At Avenue Women’s Center, our medical-grade pregnancy tests are 99.5% accurate just 10 days after possible conception. Plus, it is entirely free and confidential. Only you and your pregnancy consultant will know the result of your test. Contact Avenue Women’s Center about a free, confidential pregnancy test appointment today.

Question 2

My partner is pregnant. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

You’ve realized that even though this is “her choice” she is not the only one affected by her decision. Just like her, you can also be anxious and overwhelmed with the thought of an unexpected pregnancy. It’s not unusual to feel afraid and confused, even angry that this happened to you. That's why you need information about your options and how her decision might impact you. Our expert staff members can also help you examine your options separately or together in order to make the best choice for your situation. Schedule a no-cost, confidential consultation to learn more.

Question 3

How do I set up an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Calling or texting our helpline (630.455.0300) is the most popular way clients reach us.­ You can also connect with us via email or live chat. And, at any time, you are invited to schedule an appointment through our convenient online scheduler.­

Question 4

Do you accept walk-ins?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Walk-ins are welcome at any of our locations during business hours. However, it’s always preferable to make an appointment to ensure you receive services right away. Calling/texting ahead is a great option if you are interested in walking into one of our centers.

Question 5

What Are STDs?

Accepted Answer

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections spread by sex or sexual activity with a person infected with an STD. These diseases pass from one individual to another by blood, semen, or vaginal and other bodily fluids. Some common STDs include:

Chlamydia
Genital herpes
Gonorrhea
Hepatitis B
HIV/AIDS
HPV

Question 6

How Do Pregnancy Tests Work?

Accepted Answer

When a woman gets pregnant, the fertilized egg attaches to her uterine lining, which is called implantation. The placenta (which provides nutrients for your pregnancy) forms and produces the hormone hCG. This hormone enters your bloodstream and urine.

The amount of hCG increases rapidly, but it’s important to wait until it’s increased enough for a pregnancy test to show a positive result. The earlier you take a pregnancy test, the harder it might be for the test to detect hCG.

At our center, one of our pregnancy consultants will ask about timing, explain the process, and administer a urine pregnancy test. Your confidential results will be available at that time.

Question 7

What Happens During an Abortion Procedure?

Accepted Answer

ou may have a surgical or a medical abortion depending on your pregnancy’s gestational age. A medical abortion often involves two pills, mifepristone and misoprostol, to terminate an early pregnancy. Surgical abortion may require the use of anesthesia and medical tools. There is usually more than one surgical abortion method. The procedure you’re scheduled for may depend on the stage of your pregnancy.

An aspiration (suction) abortion typically occurs during the first trimester. Your cervix may be dilated while suction is used to remove uterine content. It’s possible you’ll undergo a dilation and evacuation (D & E) abortion if you’re in your second or third trimester. After dilating your cervix, a provider may use medical instruments to clean out your uterus. D & E abortions can take one to three days to complete.

Induction abortions are typically performed later in the second trimester. Or at the beginning of the third trimester. You may have to undergo an injection of a drug called Digoxin. This is often done to stop the pregnancy. Your cervix may also be softened and dilated. Medications may then be administered to induce the delivery of the uterine content.

Question 8

How Late Into the Pregnancy Can I Have an Abortion?

Accepted Answer

State-level restrictions on abortion can vary. The availability of abortion as an option may depend upon the laws in your individual state and how far along you are. It can be helpful to have an ultrasound exam after confirming you’re pregnant. An ultrasound can help you plan out your next steps by offering you valuable information about your condition. It can also alert you to potential early risks such as a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy.

Question 9

What Does an Abortion Cost?

Accepted Answer

How expensive an abortion is can depend on a few factors. The cost for one may be higher if you’re past the first trimester. Insurance companies may cover the procedure on a case-by-case basis. Just like with your other options, it’s important to assess your financial concerns alongside this decision.

Question 10

Are There Any Risks Associated With Abortion?

Accepted Answer

Abortion is a medical procedure and each woman responds differently. Some women have reported cramping after an abortion. Other women have said they experienced heavy bleeding and nausea afterward. In more serious cases, some women had a high fever or suffered damage to their cervix.

The way you experience side effects may differ from other women. It’s recommended you still take the time to learn more about any adverse effects. This can help you envision how you might want to move forward. It can also inform you about what follow-up treatments you may need to look into.

Question 11

Is abortion my only option?

Accepted Answer

No, you have several options. Our staff is ready to sit down with you and talk about each one. You’ll be equipped with up-to-date, relevant information about your options in a nonjudgmental, supportive environment.  When it’s time for you to make a decision, you’ll have the confidence of knowing what’s the best choice for you.

Question 12

My period is late. How do I know if I’m pregnant?

Accepted Answer

A late period can be one of the early signs of pregnancy, but you can have a change in your menstrual cycle for other reasons too. Your first step should be a no-cost, confidential pregnancy test at Avenue. Even if you’ve taken an at-home test, you’ll want to confirm the results. Schedule an appointment at Avenue today.

Question 13

What Are the Risks of Abortion?

Accepted Answer

The Mayo Clinic lists the following as potential risks of surgical abortion:
Perforation of the uterus
Damage to the cervix
Heavy bleeding
Cramping
Scar tissue on the uterine wall
Infection