Abortion is one of your options for your unplanned pregnancy. It is also a serious physical and emotional decision. Like all medical procedures, you should review your health and potential risks first. We believe in providing accurate information about your pregnancy and all of your options. Don't put your health and safety at risk. Get all of the ...
Can Women Die if They Can’t Have an Abortion?
The overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022 has created questions and confusion about abortion laws nationwide. Much information is floating around, and it can be hard to separate fact from fiction.The confusion centers around the question of life-saving medical care for the woman. Even in states that have abortion bans in place, if a woman's health is ...
How Can I Recover Emotionally After An Abortion?
There is no right or wrong way to feel after your abortion. Every woman’s experience is unique. Most women feel relief immediately after their abortion, but some begin to feel sadness, shame, and guilt days, months, and even years later. We can help you recover emotionally with free, confidential one-on-one consultations or group meetings. Contact us today.
Your Emotions are Real
Research confirms a connection between mental health problems and abortion. One study from the National Institutes of Health reports that “abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women without a history of abortion.”
The same study also says, “the abortion experience directly contributes to mental health problems for at least some women.” You are especially vulnerable if you have struggled with mental health issues before your abortion.
Post-Abortion Symptoms
An abortion can bring out a wide range of emotions. Your feelings are unique to you, and you’re entitled to feel the way you do. The following are a few of the emotions women have expressed post-abortion:
- Relief
- Guilt
- Regret
- Low self-esteem
- Abnormal eating tendencies
- Depression, anxiety, and sadness
- Emotional numbness
- Self-harm with drugs, alcohol, or other addictions
- Anger and bitterness
The Importance of Talking About It
Generally, women do not discuss their abortion experiences. There is still a stigma despite statistics suggesting roughly 25% of women will have an abortion by age 45.
Three Things Needed Before An Abortion
Three things that are important to check off your list before having an abortion are:
- Taking a quality pregnancy test
- Receiving an ultrasound
- Speaking with a professional
By completing these items, you will be armed with essential information on your options and will have taken measures that help protect your health and safety.
Why Take Another Pregnancy Test?
If you’ve already taken a home pregnancy test, you may question why there is a need to test again. According to the Mayo Clinic, although home pregnancy tests are usually accurate, there can be room for error. Pregnancy tests can give faulty results because of the following:
- Medications taken
- Medical conditions
- Early pregnancy loss
Receiving a highly accurate test in a facility that understands your medical history can help provide you with results you can trust.
Why Receive An Ultrasound?
An ultrasound image can help you gain insight into what your options are. This imaging will tell you:
Is Abortion or Adoption Right for Me?
An unplanned pregnancy can be terrifying. Your whole world might have turned upside down, and so many different resources are out there telling you what to do or not do.
You have options, but what are they, and what do they look like for you?
Is Abortion for Me?
The decision to end a viable pregnancy with an elective abortion is highly personal. Typically, women choose to have an abortion because they feel that they are unable to grow their family right now because of their current situation or lifestyle.
It’s crucial to speak with a trusted medical provider or pregnancy center to get the answers to your questions in a pressure-free environment. This will bring the clarity and confidence you need to make the best decision for your health and well-being.
Before having any medical treatment or procedure, it is also essential to complete a medical assessment:
What Are the Signs of an Incomplete Abortion?
According to the National Library of Medicine, signs and symptoms of an incomplete abortion occurring can be:
- Heavy Bleeding
- Abdominal cramping
- Fever
- Low blood pressure
Women deserve to have all the facts on abortion risks, including an incomplete abortion. If you are contemplating abortion, speak with a trusted professional first and receive the clarity you need to make an informed decision that’s right for you.
What Exactly Is an Incomplete Abortion?
An incomplete abortion occurs when pregnancy tissue is left behind after a medical or surgical abortion procedure.
If this occurs, it can become life-threatening and needs to be treated with the utmost importance and haste. Understanding when to contact your physician or emergency services can be lifesaving. Women considering an abortion should discuss this complication with their physician or a local pregnancy center before an abortion procedure.
When Should I Seek Emergency Treatment?
You should seek emergency treatment when a sign or symptom of a complication manifests. Manifestations can be:
What Are the Mental Health Effects of Abortion?
Following an abortion, many women experience a variety of emotions. Some may feel relief at first, but feelings of guilt, stress, and sadness can often follow. Women deserve to know how this procedure can impact mental health and wellness.
What Is Mental Health?
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services defines mental health as “our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.”
Today, mental health is a hot topic because society realizes its key role in our lives and happiness. Protecting your mental health and wellness is just as important as physical health. So then, it’s essential to know the early warning signs that you or someone you know may be experiencing mental health concerns. Some of these signs include:
- Feeling empty, numb.
- Feeling hopeless or helpless.
- Feeling confused, forgetful, on edge, upset, worried, or scared.
- Becoming upset with family and friends.
- Having severe mood swings.
- Having constant thoughts that are difficult to push out of your mind.
- Contemplating self-harm or harming others.
- Inability to do daily tasks.
If you believe you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, please reach out to a medical professional or someone you trust. Mental health cannot always be seen, but it is deeply experienced and does matter.
Is There a Connection Between Mental Health and Abortion?
The National Library of Medicine states, “...abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women without a history of abortion.”
What Are The Different Types of Abortion?
The two types of abortions are:
- Medical
- Surgical
The gestational age of your pregnancy usually determines the type of abortion you’re eligible for. By confirming a pregnancy through a medical-grade urine test and ultrasound, you can better understand your options and what your next step will be.
What Is a Medical Abortion?
Medical abortion is the termination of pregnancy by medication. This procedure is also called a chemical abortion and uses a medication regimen commonly referred to as the abortion pill.
Knowing the gestational age of your pregnancy is important before using this medication, as the Mayo Clinic states that women pregnant for more than nine weeks are not eligible for this procedure. In fact, “Some types of medical abortion aren't done after seven weeks of pregnancy.”
Speaking with a health care provider about your current health, health history, and receiving a complete physical is important to protect your wellness.
Does the Overturning of Roe v. Wade Affect NC?
After the Supreme Court’s ruling overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022, the power to decide how abortions are handled went back to each state. This decision means every state, including North Carolina, can now independently select the laws their government wishes to pass and enforce on abortion.
What Are the Risks of Abortion?
There are two main types of abortion: Medical and Surgical. Depending on the type of abortion, risks can vary. Some risks associated with both a Medical and Surgical Abortion are:
- Abnormal heavy, and prolonged bleeding
- Fever
- Infection
What Is a Medical Abortion?
A medical abortion is a process that utilizes a medication regimen to end a pregnancy. The medications used are called mifepristone and misoprostol.