Considering Abortion
What You Need to Know
So you think you might be pregnant, and you’re trying to figure out what to do. Maybe you cannot afford a baby. Maybe you think it’s not the right time. Maybe your partner wants nothing to do with a baby. Whatever the reason, abortion may seem to be the best option right now.
We know it is incredibly stressful to navigate this big of a decision. But before you schedule your appointment, we want to equip you to make the best choice for you. Take your time. Get all the information. Know what your options are. Know the risks. Know the procedure. Know the effects.
Are You Actually Pregnant?
Many women think they have to make this decision because they missed their period. But just because you missed your period, it doesn’t mean you are pregnant. It could be due to stress or even a change in diet or exercise.
We recommend taking a pregnancy test, then confirming the pregnancy is viable with an ultrasound. Set up an appointment, and we can help you through this process.
What You Need to Know About Abortion
There are two different kinds of abortion, surgical abortion and medical abortion. Surgical abortions are done in a clinic or a hospital, while medical abortions are performed in your home and involve taking a series of medications.
While abortion is seen as a fairly safe procedure, serious side effects do happen (1 out of 100 first-trimester abortions and 1 out of 50 late-term abortions).
Common risks associated with surgical abortion include: damage to the womb or cervix, damage to other organs, uterine perforation (accidentally putting a hole in uterus with a surgical instrument), 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), and not removing all of the baby/pregnancy tissue (this requires another procedure).
Physical side effects or post-procedure complications include: cramping, nausea, breast soreness, light to heavy bleeding, blood clots, low-grade fever, and infection or sepsis.
Emotional and psychological side effects include: anxiety, depression, substance abuse, traumatic symptoms, and sleep disorders.
Do you need help deciding what to do about your pregnancy? We are here for you. You can chat with us in the bottom right of the screen or call us at (559) 784-8565.