Abortion Safety Checklist
10 Questions to get answered before scheduling an abortion:
If you’re considering an abortion there are 10 important questions you need answered to ensure this is the best option for you, and to make sure you’re safe and cared for.
1. Am I really pregnant?
Taking a pregnancy test is a great place to start, but they are not always accurate and cannot medically confirm a pregnancy. It is important to get your pregnancy confirmed by a medical professional through a confirmation ultrasound so that you know what your options actually are before taking your next steps.
To get a free and confidential confirmation ultrasound, call us at (231) 929-3488, and our Patient Care Team will help you set up an appointment. Click the button below to learn more about confirmation ultrasounds:
2. What are the potential risks and side effects for abortion?
Every medical procedure, including abortion, carries the risk of complications. It’s important to educate yourself on all potential abortion risks and side effects so that you can make an informed decision with confidence.
There are many different types of abortion procedures, used in different stages of pregnancy. We wrote a full blog that explains pretty much everything you might want to know about abortion procedures, the risks and possible side effects associated with each procedure, and what to expect during and after an abortion. Click here to visit the Abortion Procedures + Risks blog.
3. Have I considered alternatives to abortion?
Abortion may seem like the best fit for your current circumstances, but you won’t regret learning about what other options you have. Information is power, so we recommend that you take advantage of all the information available, to ensure you’re making an empowered, educated decision, not a rushed or panicked one. Whatever choice you make will be permanent, so its invaluable to take the necessary steps to ensure you choose the best option for you short term AND long term.
At Thrive Medical Clinic, it’s our desire to equip you with ALL of the facts so that you can make your pregnancy decision with courage and confidence, rather than out of fear or desperation. If you’re not sure what option is the best fit for you, or you have questions about your options, call us to start a conversation or set up a no-cost and confidential consultation that’s free of any pressure or judgement. We truly care and we’re here for you as you navigate this difficult decision. Call us 231-929-3488 or schedule an appointment online using the button below.
4. Do I know my rights?
Great news ladies - you have rights! It’s so valuable and important to know what they are. As either an adult or a minor, you have the right to:
Take the time you need to assess the procedure’s risks and side effects - make sure that you fully understand and are comfortable with these potentials.
Learn about all of your pregnancy options - ask whoever you consult with to explain your complete range of options. This will help you weigh the pros and cons of each, to help you identify which is the best for you.
Change your mind - even after you’ve arrived at an appointment or consultation at an abortion clinic, it is YOUR CHOICE whether or not you’d like to continue. It’s absolutely your right to change your mind at any point. If this happens, don’t be afraid to be bold and communicate your wishes.
If you are being pressured to get an abortion that you don’t want, contact the police, reach out to us at (231)929-3488 for help or schedule a free and confidential consult to talk with someone who will listen and help educate you on all of your options, or call toll free: (210)614-7157.
5. Have I been tested for an STI/STD?
6. Have I gotten information about the abortion provider?
If you call to schedule an abortion, ask for the name of the doctor/doctors performing abortion procedures. It is wise to find out if the doctor is licensed and board-certified. Also find out if there are malpractice cases or disciplinary actions against the doctor. You can check online at: https://www.healthgrades.com/
7. Do I know how the clinic handles complications during the procedure?
Be sure to ask if the abortion doctor has admitting privileges to a hospital nearby in case you have an emergency. It is important to know if the clinic has a plan to provide any follow-up or emergency care, should complications arise during or after the procedure.
8. Will I feel pain?
9. Do I know what to do if I change my mind?
Abortion is your choice – you can change your mind at any time. Women have gotten off the exam table and left the procedure before it started. Some have changed their minds after taking the first set of pills for a medical abortion.
If you are having doubts about your abortion decision, call the 24/7 HELPLINE: (877)558-0333, visit: abortionpillreversal.com/.
This is a decision that you will live with the rest of your life. Don’t allow anyone to pressure you.
10. What feelings can I expect after the abortion?
If you are someone struggling with a past abortion experience, please reach out by calling us at (231)929-3488 or scheduling an appointment online HERE, or visiting: www.supportafterabortion.com.
You don’t have to make this decision alone!
Often, it can be healthy to have someone trustworthy to confide in - someone who can help you process everything as you make this decision.
If you have any questions that weren’t covered above, or if you’d just like to talk with a fellow woman about what you’re going through, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. You are not alone! We’re here to serve and support you without any pressure or judgement.