Abortion Information Consultation

Why should I have an abortion information consultation?

Having all the information you need about abortion empowers you and allows you to take the time you need to make an informed decision. We understand that this can be a stressful situation, ending in a powerful and personal decision. Vida acts as a neutral party, offering information so that you can choose what option is best for you. Women who are considering an abortion, have scheduled an abortion, or have ordered the abortion pills by mail or online, may make a confidential appointment at no cost.

What does an abortion information consultation appointment include?

A abortion information consultation appointment includes:

Medical verification of your pregnancy;
Ultrasound to determine location of the pregnancy (intrauterine vs. possible ectopic pregnancy), viability vs. possible miscarriage, and dating of pregnancy;
STI testing;
Consultation with a nurse to discuss abortion procedures/risks, discuss a potential emergency plan, possible side effects and address any questions you may have.

Some patients may not meet the medical requirements for an ultrasound. While we do not provide or refer for abortions at Vida, we are here to help you understand all of your options so that you can make an informed decision.

Why is an abortion information consultation important?

Due Date Accuracy – Up to 50% of women are off about their dates.  (Source: Evidence Based Birth). Understanding how far along in the pregnancy you are is an important part of the decision-making process. At Vida, we offer free and confidential ultrasounds, which, is more accurate than last missed period when determining the stage of the pregnancy. (Source: National Library of Medicine)

Ectopic Pregnancies – 1 in 50 pregnancies can be ectopic– outside the uterus. (Source: American Pregnancy Association)

Educate and Empower – An abortion is a big decision and having all the information will empower you to make an informed choice regarding what pregnancy option is best for you.

Miscarriages – Nearly one in four pregnancies end in miscarriage; however, the number is most likely even higher because most miscarriages occur early in the pregnancy. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

Health Risks – At-home abortion is not without risks. Many websites and sources will tell you it’s safe. In fact, one site has even said it’s as safe as Tylenol. The FDA strongly advises against buying Mifeprex online. (Source: FDA – scroll down to see their warning.)

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FAQ's

Can I get an abortion at Vida?

Vida does not perform or refer for an abortion. However, we do provide education, medical grade pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, abortion pill reversal, STD/STI treatment and a medical consultation with a licensed medical professional to help you consider your options while making a pregnancy decision.

What is a surgical abortion? 

Aspiration abortion: performed up to 14 weeks after the first day from last menstrual period (LMP). Using a speculum, the cervix will be opened with dilators. A tube connected to suction is inserted into the cervix, which will empty the uterus. A curette (metal loop-shaped tool) may be used to remove tissue that is lining the uterus

Dilation and Evacuation: performed 14 weeks or later from LMP. Same process as aspiration, however more time is required to soften and dilate the cervix. Combined with medical tools and a curette, the uterus is emptied.

What is a chemical abortion?  

A chemical abortion, also known as the abortion pill or at-home abortion, is a pregnancy termination process that involves taking two different drugs:  Mifepristone and Misoprostol.  The FDA has approved its use for up to the first 10 weeks of pregnancy.

If I have taken the first dose of the abortion pill and regret my decision, is it too late?

It may not be too late.  Every woman has the right to change her mind and deny further medication. There are various opinions on abortion pill reversal in the medical community; however, if you want to speak to a provider that offers this protocol, this can be arranged for you.

I am considering an abortion.  Should I still make an appointment at Vida?

Yes, we are here to discuss all of your options with you.  All of our services are free of charge, professional and confidential.  We’re here to talk.  No matter what. 

Why do I need STI testing?

A STI could cause potential complications following an abortion, including Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID is an infection of a woman’s reproductive organs that often occurs due to untreated STIs, including chlamydia and gonorrhea. PID can lead to serious complications including infertility and ectopic pregnancy.