Do you believe that you’re unexpectedly pregnant, and in your second trimester? Maybe you’re seriously considering or actively seeking an abortion at this time. If so, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed by your circumstances and anxious to get answers. You’ve probably heard that different stages of pregnancy require different abortion processes. Maybe you’re not sure where things stand with your pregnancy, what options are currently available to you, or what a second trimester abortion would involve. This blog is for you!
There are steps you can take that will equip you to make a confident pregnancy choice while protecting your own safety and wellness. Avenue Women’s Center exists to help you reach that goal, regardless of the obstacles you’re facing. We’re passionate about empowering women to make informed decisions concerning their health, which is why we provide reliable pregnancy information at no cost.
Learn more about Avenue Women’s Center! Our expert staff is fully committed to presenting the facts with integrity, compassion, and neutrality.
Understanding the Medical Side
If you’re considering abortion at any point in your pregnancy, it can be beneficial to understand the medical process behind the procedure. That way, you’ll know what to expect. You’ll be better equipped to ask informed questions and advocate for your personal health needs.
According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the method most commonly used for a second trimester abortion (an abortion occurring after 13 weeks of pregnancy) is dilation and evacuation (D&C). This procedure begins with the dilation (opening) of the cervix. A suction tool and medical instruments are then used to remove the contents of the uterus. Soreness, cramping, and bleeding/spotting are normal after-effects (ACOG).
“How Can I Protect Myself as I Take My Next Steps?”
As you continue to navigate your decision-making process, consider taking these critical steps! Doing so will allow you to safeguard your own health. Always remember that your personal safety is priority number-one when it comes to making a pregnancy choice.
Consult a qualified medical professional.
It’s always essential for an abortion process to be overseen by a qualified medical professional. This is especially true for a woman in her second or third trimester, because abortion procedures are more complex at these later stages. They involve unique processes and carry unique risks. If you’re considering abortion, a doctor or qualified medical professional will be able to go over these risks, explain methods like D&C in more detail, and answer your specific questions. He or she will likely have questions about your medical history, medications you’re taking, and other unique factors, because these can influence your health and safety as you move forward.
Get an ultrasound and options consultation.
At Avenue, we provide limited medical ultrasounds at no cost! These look for three key pieces of information: 1) the location of the pregnancy (because a pregnancy located outside of the uterus would require medical help beyond an abortion), 2) how far along you are (which can influence which abortion method(s) you’d be eligible for), and 3) your chances of miscarriage (because most women like to know this before they undergo the process and expense of an abortion).
In addition to a free scan, Avenue can offer an options consultation to review all your available abortion and pregnancy options. We believe that women deserve to know all the alternative pathways and resources that are open to them. That’s why we provide accurate information free of charge, with kindness, approachability, and neutrality.
If you haven’t moved forward with a pregnancy decision yet, it’s not too late to make an informed choice you feel confident in. Avenue Women’s Center is here to support you in that. We’re a limited medical clinic that provides first-step services, including medical-grade pregnancy tests, pregnancy consultations, and limited medical ultrasounds. We’d love to help you get the clarity and insight you need to make the pregnancy choice that you truly feel is best for you.
Discover our confidential services at Avenue and reach out to schedule an appointment!
_______________
Reference:
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2022, September). FAQs: Abortion Care. Retrieved from: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/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.