Having accurate information about abortion is important when making decisions following an unexpected pregnancy. Before you get an abortion, you need to consider if you have had an ultrasound, understand the risks, and have taken time to learn about your options. 

This can help ensure you are making an informed decision that protects your health. Albemarle Pregnancy Resource Center is here to help you get free access to pregnancy testing and limited obstetric ultrasounds so you can confirm your pregnancy. 

We also provide education about your options, including parenting, adoption, and abortion, to ensure you have all the information to make a decision that’s right for you.

Schedule your free, confidential appointment today.

First, Confirm Your Pregnancy 

Before you make any decisions, the first step is to confirm whether you are pregnant. If you’ve already taken a test, you may be thinking, “But I already know I’m pregnant.” However, a pregnancy test alone does not provide enough medical information to fully understand your pregnancy.

Getting a limited obstetric ultrasound after a positive pregnancy test is important as it shows the location of the pregnancy, how far along you are, and the viability (if there is a heartbeat). All three factors play a role in your abortion options. 

Knowing the location of your pregnancy helps rule out an ectopic pregnancy, which is not a viable pregnancy and requires medical attention. It also tells us if your pregnancy is within gestational age since the FDA only approves medical abortion up to ten weeks. 

There is also a chance you might have already miscarried, even if you have a recent positive pregnancy test. A limited obstetric ultrasound will show if the pregnancy is viable.

We offer both no-cost pregnancy testing and limited obstetric ultrasounds at our center. 

Understand the Two Abortion Types

There are two abortion types to understand, and which one is available depends on how far along your pregnancy is. A medical abortion consists of two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. These drugs work to block the pregnancy hormones and empty the uterus. 

The second type is a surgical abortion, which is a procedure where a thin instrument called a curette is used to scrape the uterus. This is performed in a medical setting, typically beyond 10 weeks.

Know the Side Effects and Risks 

Medical and surgical abortions both have side effects and risks worth knowing about. Side effects of the abortion pill and surgical abortion include cramping and vaginal bleeding. 

There are potential risks of a medical abortion, including an incomplete abortion, infection, and heavy bleeding. For a surgical abortion, there is a risk of uterine perforation and infection. 

There are also some emotional risks to be aware of, as there is a strong correlation between women who have had abortions and mental health conditions compared to women who have not, as shown by this study.

Learn About All Your Options

Abortion is not your only option. Parenting and adoption are other options worth learning about. 

Parenting can feel overwhelming at first, especially in an unexpected pregnancy, but support and resources are available to help you.

Adoption is another option where you may choose a plan that fits your needs, whether open, semi-open, or closed, depending on the level of contact you want. Taking time to learn about all your options can help you make a decision that feels right for you.

If you ever feel pressured into an abortion by your family or partner, seeking outside support at confidential centers like ours can help you create space and gather your thoughts. Your decision is up to you and you only.

Get the Answers You Need

Whether you are feeling uncertain about your next step or want to learn more about abortion, our door is open. We offer you a space to talk to us in a non-judgmental and supportive environment where we will discuss your options and the facts around your pregnancy. 

We offer free pregnancy testing and limited obstetric ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy and give you access to the important medical information you need to know. 

You deserve clarity, support, and care as you move forward.

Contact us today to schedule your confidential appointment.