Know your options
Abortion
A woman's reasons for choosing abortion are varied and highly personal.
If you are considering abortion, it may seem like this is the solution to moving on with your life or getting back on track. No matter what you choose – to carry or to abort – your life is forever changed. This pregnancy will always be part of your story.
Questions to consider
Do I have a viable pregnancy?
It is important to have your pregnancy confirmed by a medical professional. A viable pregnancy means that the fetus has a heartbeat at this point and has a reasonable chance of being carried to full term. A significant number of early pregnancies are not viable and end on their own in miscarriage. (7) An ultrasound exam can confirm whether or not your pregnancy is viable.
Is my pregnancy in my uterus and why does it matter?
An ectopic pregnancy means a pregnancy is growing somewhere outside of your uterus (commonly in a fallopian tube). This condition is very serious, so it is important to have an ultrasound exam to determine the location of your pregnancy. The abortion pill or surgical abortion will not end an ectopic pregnancy, and allowing the ectopic pregnancy to go on undiagnosed could lead to serious complications for you. (8)
How far along am I?
Knowing how far along you are in your pregnancy is very important if you are considering having an abortion. There are different risks associated with each type of abortion. An ultrasound exam is the most reliable way to know exactly how far along you are. At CPC we offer a limited, obstetrical ultrasounds free of charge.
How much does an abortion cost?
At CPC we do not provide or refer for abortions.
It is important to note that abortion costs are variable and are determined by:
- How far along you are in your pregnancy
- Where you live
- If anesthesia is needed
- Type of procedure
Depending on these factors, an abortion can cost anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars. (9)
Abortion Procedures & Risks
At CPC we do not provide or refer for abortions.
Abortion is a medical procedure. So with any medical procedure, you should discuss complications and risks with a medical professional before making your decision. Although we do not provide or refer for abortions, our nurses and staff are here to give you information as well as answer your questions about abortion without judgment.
The Abortion Pill (Less than 10 weeks pregnant)
This can also be referred to as a medical or medication abortion. (10) Although called the abortion pill, it is actually a series of two pills that are used to terminate and expel the pregnancy. This method is FDA approved up to 10 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period.
Procedure
First Pill: Mifepristone, is taken at the abortion clinic. This pill cuts off the supply of progesterone to the pregnancy and causes the death of the embryo over the course of days.
Second Pill: Misoprostol, is usually taken at home 24-48 hours later. This pill causes your uterus to contract and dispel the embryo through the vaginal canal. Cramping may be severe and bleeding usually lasts one to two weeks. (11)
Surgical Abortion (Greater than 10 weeks pregnant)
Surgical abortion can be used at any time during the pregnancy, but it is more common after 10 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period.
Procedure
This procedure involves –
- The dilation of the cervix and removal of the fetus with suction, forceps, curettes or other surgical tools.
- Anesthesia may be available during the procedure, but depends on the abortion clinic.
- Health risks increase the later in pregnancy the abortion takes place. (12)