Frequently Asked Questions
About Surgical Abortions
How is an abortion performed?
Surgical first trimester abortion (up to 12 weeks) takes about five minutes. A local anesthetic is applied to the cervix, then the cervix is dilated (opened). Gentle suction (vacuum aspiration) is used to empty the contents of the uterus.
Will it hurt?
Often, women are concerned about pain, and there is usually some discomfort during the procedure. You may feel pressure when the speculum is inserted, and experience mild to strong cramping (menstrual-like) during and after the abortion. An optional sedative is available. Ibuprofen is offered to help alleviate cramping.
When can I have an abortion?
You can have an abortion at MHCW between 5 - 15.6 weeks of pregnancy, which is determined by an ultrasound examination prior to your procedure. The appointment is scheduled according to the first day of your last menstrual period.
What happens to the pregnancy?
The assistant and doctor examine the tissue removed during the procedure to ensure that the abortion is complete. Disposal of the tissue complies with rigorous state and federal guidelines.
Are there women physicians on staff?
Currently, MHCW has both highly trained male and female physicians who perform abortions. Please let us know if you have a preference when you schedule your appointment.
Can I bring a friend or significant other?
It is encouraged to bring a support person with you to your appointment, but for medical and security reasons, the person is not allowed in the procedure room. MHCW has a supportive staff that will meet with you prior to your abortion to explain the procedure. There will also be a counselor in the room to support you through the abortion. We are not able to accommodate children in the clinic or waiting room.
How will I feel after my abortion?
While some women may experience sensations of regret, sadness, or guilt after an abortion, the overwhelming response reported to us is relief. Emotional changes are often a result of the hormonal level changes in the body after a pregnancy ends. MHCW offers post-abortion counseling to anyone who needs further support.
Can I still have children in the future?
Yes. An abortion will have no effect on your ability to become pregnant in the future. Women go on to have healthy pregnancies and children.
How many women have abortions?
49% of pregnancies among American women are unintended; half of these are terminated by abortion . If current rates continue, it is estimated that nearly half of all women of reproductive age in the United States today will have had an abortion by the time they reach the age of 45.
What about the "abortion pill?"
MHCW offers the medical abortion to those women who are between 5 - 7.6 weeks pregnant, determined by an ultrasound done in our clinic. There are also other requirements in order for this to be an option for you.
Do I need anybody's permission to have an abortion?
If you are 18 or older, you may have an abortion without anyone's consent. If you are under 18, and are not legally emancipated from your parents, then you need to either: a) notify both of your parents or b) arrange with MHCW to have a judicial bypass. This means that on the day of your procedure, a judge permits you to go ahead without notifying your parents. If there are other circumstances with your situation, we will be able to assist you with setting up an appointment.
How long is the appointment for the abortion?
The appointment takes anywhere from 4 - 5 hours. You will be asked to fill out paperwork, be given a number of tests including a urine pregnancy test, a blood test to check your RH factor, and a hemoglobin test (to make sure you are not anemic "low blood sugar level"). You will meet with a nurse who will go over your medical history, review the procedure, and discuss any concerns you may have. An ultrasound examination will be done to determine how far along the pregnancy is. The actual procedure takes 5 minutes on average to perform. There will be a 20-30 minute recovery period when a nurse will monitor your vital signs. You may leave when you feel comfortable enough to do so, and have been discharged by MHCW staff.
|
