When considering abortion, there are a variety of factors that play into your eligibility.
Not only do some women not qualify for abortion, but others may be at an increased risk for adverse effects.
Before choosing to terminate your pregnancy, it is critical to meet with a medical provider to discuss your health history and learn as much as possible about your unique pregnancy.
The New Beginnings Pregnancy Center team is here to help by providing free services and support as you navigate your pregnancy decision.
Learning the Facts about Your Pregnancy
The first step is to confirm your pregnancy with a lab-quality pregnancy test. While at-home tests are very accurate, a false positive can occur; a test in our clinic can help verify your pregnancy.
Then, our team will offer you a follow-up ultrasound. An ultrasound is an essential step before having an abortion and reveals the following details:
- Viability: Before making a pregnancy decision, you must determine whether the pregnancy is viable, meaning there is a detectable heartbeat on the ultrasound scan. According to the Mayo Clinic, up to 20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. If you have miscarried, you may need additional medical advice on the passing of the pregnancy.
- Gestational age: The age of your pregnancy may impact your eligibility for an abortion. According to the FDA, the abortion pill should not be used beyond 10 weeks of pregnancy, and doing so can lead to increased complications.
- Location: Abortions are intended to terminate pregnancies within the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy, a pregnancy that is implanted outside the uterus, cannot be treated with an abortion and is considered a medical emergency.
Understanding Mental Health Risks
Abortion is a serious medical decision, and before terminating a pregnancy, all women should consider the potential mental health impacts. Abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women without a history of abortion.
Mental health risks include:
- Depression disorders
- Eating disorders
- Anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
- Suicidal behaviors
- Substance abuse
Get Help Today
Navigating an unplanned pregnancy can feel isolating. While you may feel no one understands what you’re facing, please know you don’t have to walk alone.
New Beginnings Pregnancy Center wants to support you by providing a safe environment where you can receive free pregnancy services and get your questions answered by our trusted team.
We are here to help you learn more about your pregnancy and options.
Contact us today for your free and confidential appointment.