Question 1

What steps should be taken before getting an abortion?

Accepted Answer

You should verify you are pregnant by a pregnancy test and confirm you are pregnant by an ultrasound. In some cases, it may be advisable to get testing and treatment for STIs/STDs.

Question 2

What happens during an abortion?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the type of abortion you get. If you get a medical abortion, you will be taking two different medications. One pill stops the pregnancy, and the other pill expels the embryo from your body.
If you get a surgical abortion, a doctor must insert a speculum to examine your uterus. Your cervix will be stretched open with dilators either before or during the procedure. Next, the doctor will insert a tube through the cervix into the uterus, which is attached to a suction device. This will empty the uterus.

Question 3

Do abortions hurt?

Accepted Answer

Pain and discomfort levels vary from woman to woman. Some women experience the physical side effect of severe cramping, fever, vomiting, chills, etc.
Additionally, some of the emotional and psychological side effects don’t always present themselves until much later.

Question 4

How long does the pain last after a surgical abortion?

Accepted Answer

You can expect to experience light to heavy vaginal bleeding accompanied by cramping for about two weeks. However, if you continue to have bleeding and cramping for more than two weeks, you should seek medical attention.

Question 5

What are the side effects of an abortion?

Accepted Answer

Intense cramping
Bleeding heavier than a period
Dizziness
Diarrhea
Headaches
Mild fever
Hot flashes
Chills
More severe side effects, which need medical attention:
An allergic reaction to the medication
Infection
An incomplete abortion
Severe pain
Fever
Passing clots for two or more hours that are equal or larger than the size of a lemon
Strong smelling vaginal discharge
Excessive bleeding, using two or more pads in an hour

Question 6

How much does abortion cost (or what is the average cost of an abortion)?

Accepted Answer

The average cost of an abortion in the US in the first trimester is approximately $500. Second-trimester abortions average $1,500. However, abortion costs tend to be higher in states where abortion is more restricted.

Question 7

Do I need an ultrasound before an abortion?

Accepted Answer

Once a positive pregnancy is confirmed, we will schedule your ultrasound appointment. We offer a free limited ultrasound to confirm the viability of your pregnancy with physician review and diagnosis. An ultrasound confirms the location, viability, and duration of your pregnancy, all critical information for proper care.