Abortion Clinic - Frequently Asked Questions Part 1
Part 1, Part 2
Q: Do you offer free pregnancy testing?
A: Yes, we offer a free pregnancy test to anyone that wants one.
Q: What is the cost of an abortion procedure?
A: The typical abortion procedure charge is $370 for up to 13 weeks of pregnancy. However, depending on how far along the pregnancy is, or based on other risk factors, there may be an additional charge. The fee is all inclusive, and includes the cost of blood work, medications administered during the procedure, ultrasound examination, local anesthesia, as well as post operative follow up visit.
Q: What is medical abortion?
A: Medical abortion is induced with a medication called RU486 (mifepristone). Although no surgery is usually necessary, sometimes a rescue surgery (D and C) is necessary to resolve the pregnancy. A risk of the medical abortion procedure includes sudden hemorrhage, which may necessitate surgical D and C.
Q: How safe is a surgical abortion procedure?
A: As with any surgical procedure, an abortion carries some risk. Although abortions are usually very safe, there is a small risk of infection, bleeding, uterine perforation, blood transfusion, hospitalization, hysterectomy, sterility, or even death. However, the risks of such events are low, and in experienced hands are very low. Such risks must be weighed against the risks of continuing the pregnancy, which carries risks that are similar or higher in likelihood.
Q: Will an abortion affect future fertility?
A: The answer is possibly, although highly unlikely. If one of the above complications occur, there is an increased likelihood of infertility in the future. However, since such events are rare, the likelihood of future infertility is also rare.
Q: What should I expect after a surgical abortion?
A: In most cases, mild cramps and slight vaginal bleeding is the extent of all that is expected after an abortion procedure. Some discomfort and cramping is normal, as is some bleeding. The bleeding usually lightens significantly or ceases within 2-3 weeks. If the bleeding is heavier than a period, or lasts longer than 3 weeks, you should seek an evaluation by us. If the pain is severe, or you notice heavy discharge or fevers or chills, contact us.
Q: When can I return to work after a surgical abortion?
A: Usually, within 2-3 days after the surgical abortion you may resume work. You should wait longer if directed to do so by you health care provider.
Q: When can I resume sexual activity after an abortion?
A: You should refrain from any sexual activity for at least 4 weeks. Do not have sex prior to returning for your follow up visit in 3 weeks.
Q: What kind of anesthesia will I be given during the abortion?
A: Options for surgical abortion include general and local anesthesia. General anesthesia presents a higher risk of death, aspiration pneumonia, uterine perforation, and vaginal bleeding. Therefore, for safety reasons, we do not offer general anesthesia. We have found that local anesthesia is safer and provides adequate pain relief during the abortion.