When you’re researching abortion, it’s easy to focus on finding answers as quickly as possible. However, before looking at procedures or making plans, there’s another question that’s crucial to ask:
Do I have all the information about my pregnancy that I need?
A home pregnancy test can only tell you that pregnancy hormones are present. It can’t tell you whether the pregnancy is developing, how far along you are, and other critical details. If you’re looking for answers, Birthright of San Lorenzo offers the insight and resources you need.
Schedule a confidential appointment to learn more before making your decision.
There’s More to Learn Than a Positive Pregnancy Test Can Tell You
A positive pregnancy test doesn’t tell you everything you need to know.
An ultrasound can tell you the following:
- Viability: Whether the pregnancy is progressing and a heartbeat is detectable. As many as 26% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, often without obvious symptoms. A positive test can remain positive even after a pregnancy has ended.
- Gestational age: How far along you are. The abortion pill is FDA-approved only through 10 weeks of gestation. If you are considering medical abortion, know that taking abortion drugs beyond that time isn’t recommended.
- Location: Whether the pregnancy is in the uterus. In rare cases, a pregnancy can implant in a fallopian tube, known as an ectopic pregnancy. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention to prevent life-threatening complications.
Every Procedure Has Potential Risks
Whether you’re considering medical abortion or a surgical abortion, it’s important to understand what each procedure involves.
Medical abortion causes abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. Other side effects can include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, and headache. Risks include heavy or prolonged bleeding, infection, and incomplete abortion, where tissue remains in the uterus and may require surgical follow-up.
Surgical abortion usually causes mild cramping and light spotting. Risks associated with this method include perforation of the uterus, damage to the cervix, scar tissue formation inside the uterus, and infection.
Knowing these possibilities allows you to ask informed questions before deciding. It’s also critical to consider your personal health history and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
Give Yourself the Opportunity to Ask Questions
You may already have a direction in mind, or you may still be weighing your options. Either way, having more information can help you feel more confident about your decision.
If you’d like to confirm your pregnancy, learn about your options, or discuss your questions, we’re here to help. Schedule a no-cost, confidential appointment with Birthright of San Lorenzo today.
Birthright of San Lorenzo does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
