You may be contemplating the option of abortion as you face an unexpected pregnancy – you are not alone. Abortion is a significant pregnancy decision – a choice that may have future implications. You may be wondering what is needed before an abortion. In this blog, we’ll discuss some important next steps that will help you feel confident in your pregnancy decision.
First – Confirm Your Pregnancy
Before you make a pregnancy decision – you want to confirm that you’re pregnant. There is a chance your at-home pregnancy test results could be inaccurate if taken incorrectly or at the wrong time.
Consider confirming your home pregnancy test results with a medical-grade pregnancy test and ultrasound. An ultrasound lets you know if your pregnancy is viable (if it’s likely to continue), where your pregnancy is located, and how far along you are. It’s helpful to confirm how far along you are, as it determines what type of abortion procedure you qualify for.
An ultrasound also notifies you of early pregnancy risks like ectopic pregnancy (where a pregnancy is outside the uterus) or miscarriage. If you face either of these complications – an abortion procedure would not be necessary.
Consider The Risks of Abortion
As with any medical procedure, both surgical and medical abortion comes with potential risks to your health. According to the Mayo Clinic, here are some common medical abortion risks to consider:
- An incomplete abortion (which may make it necessary to have a surgical abortion)
- Digestive discomfort
- Prolonged & heavy bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
With surgical abortion, common risks include:
- Damage to the womb or cervix
- Uterine perforation
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes
- Scarring of the inside of the uterus
- Reaction to the medicines or anesthesia, such as problems breathing
Learn All Your Options
Many women think abortion is their only option, but you have three options: abortion, adoption, and parenting. You deserve to be fully informed about them all.
Explore your options with our team today at Avenue Women’s Center. We are here to help you in your time of need with education on each option.
Confirm your pregnancy with a no-cost medical-grade pregnancy test and ultrasound to get the information you need to move forward. Schedule your no-cost appointment today!
Reviewed by Patricia Kuenzi, APN-CNP, MSN, ANP, PNP.
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.