Before you visit an abortion clinic

If you are considering abortion, it is vitally important to be informed and ready for your upcoming appointment. At Wellspring, we firmly believe that all women should be empowered to make the best decision for themselves without pressure or judgment. If you are considering abortion, make sure you know the answers to the following questions before scheduling an appointment at an abortion clinic or ordering the abortion pill online.

1. Do you know if you are pregnant? While this may seem like something obvious, you should confirm your pregnancy with a lab-grade pregnancy test at a medical clinic. Abortion is a medical procedure and you shouldn’t have an unnecessary procedure without being certain that you are really are pregnant.
2. Do you know if your pregnancy is viable? Along with confirming your pregnancy with a lab-grade pregnancy test, you should find out if your pregnancy is viable. While a pregnancy test can tell you if pregnancy-related hormones are present, an ultrasound can tell you if the pregnancy is viable. If you are at risk for miscarriage, an abortion may not be necessary.
3. Do you know where your pregnancy is located? While rare, ectopic pregnancies should be ruled out if you are considering abortion. If you do have an ectopic pregnancy, that needs to be dealt with in a different manner than a pregnancy located in the uterus. An ultrasound can tell you the location of the pregnancy.
4. Do you know how far along you are? If you are considering abortion, this is perhaps the most important piece of information you need before visiting an abortion clinic. There are many different types of abortion and you need to know how far along you to know which ones you might be eligible for. An ultrasound is the best way to know the gestational age.
5. Do you know the risks associated with abortion? Like any medical procedure, there are risks associated with abortion. It is your right to know these risks and ask questions in a safe place before consenting to an abortion.
6. Have you had STD testing and if needed treatment? Since STDs are increasing each year, there is a chance you have an STD. Many times, there are no symptoms but can cause problems after an abortion if not treated before the abortion happens. At Wellspring, we test for common STDs and can provide treatment if needed.

At Wellspring, we know you have three options if you are experiencing an unexpected pregnancy: abortion, adoption, and parenting. We are here with the resources and information you need to make an informed choice. Contact us today for your no-cost, confidential appointment.