Many women think abortion is the answer to their unexpected pregnancy. They feel there is no other choice. A quick decision to have an abortion can lead to possible physical and emotional health problems. Before you make your appointment with an abortion provider, talk with us first. You do have more than one option.

Receive A No-Cost Pre-Abortion Screening

Despite what you may have been told, choosing to have an abortion is a significant medical and psychological decision. Any time you choose to remove something from your body, you should first discuss your situation with a medical professional. 

Schedule an appointment for a pre-abortion screening. Our professional medical staff and advocates will walk you through every step of the way. We want you to be fully informed about your decision. Here are some important things to do:

  • Check to see if you have any of these early pregnancy symptoms
  • Receive complimentary professional pregnancy testing with us
  • Have a complimentary ultrasound scan when medically indicated to determine if the pregnancy is viable (living and likely to continue) and how far along you are. All ultrasounds are performed by our certified nurses 
  • Discuss your situation and learn about all of your options

All our testing and other pregnancy services are offered to you at no cost.

Types of Abortion Procedures

There are two main types of abortion: medication and surgical. Which procedure the abortion provider uses depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy. This is best determined by an ultrasound. At Avenues, we offer ultrasounds at no cost.

Medication Abortion

Most women have heard about the abortion pill, which is a medication abortion method. By its name, you would think you take one pill and you’re done, but it is actually two powerful drugs.

You can only have a medication abortion if you are less than ten weeks pregnant. A complimentary ultrasound at Avenues can determine how far along you are in your pregnancy.

It is important to be aware of the possible side effects and risks associated with a medication abortion. Here are a few:

  • Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by a surgical abortion
  • Heavy and prolonged bleeding
  • Abdominal cramping
  • Infection
  • Fever lasting longer than 24 hours
  • Digestive system discomfort, diarrhea

Surgical Abortion

There are different types of surgical abortions depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy. Up to 14 weeks, a D & C, also known as vacuum aspiration, would likely be performed. This procedure requires a suctioning device inserted through your cervix to empty the contents of the uterus. 15 weeks and up, you may have a D & E, which involves vacuum aspiration, scraping the lining of the uterus, and use of forceps to remove the pregnancy. 

Because surgical abortion is more extensive, so are the possible side effects and risks. Here are a few:

  • Bleeding, including blood clots
  • Intense cramping
  • Potential for uterine perforation
  • Infection with fever, abdominal pain, foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Feeling faint, sweating

Is Abortion The Answer For You?

There is more than one option, and you have the right to be informed. Whether you choose abortion, adoption, or parenting, we want you to be able to make a confident, empowered decision about your pregnancy. Schedule an appointment with us today. We are here for you.