Abortion is a significant medical decision. Just like with any medical procedure, it’s important to be fully informed to prioritize your health and well-being.
In Texas, abortion is currently banned except to preserve the life of the mother. A woman who obtains an abortion cannot be held criminally or civilly liable. It is also illegal to ship abortion inducing drugs into the state of Texas.
In this article, we’ll explore three essential steps to take before seeking an abortion. If you need a confidential, pressure-free space to talk things through, our care team at FirstLook is here for you. Contact us today to schedule a free and confidential appointment.
1. Learn How Abortion Works—and Understand the Risks
There are two primary types of abortion: medical (commonly known as the abortion pill) and surgical. Each comes with its own process and potential risks.
Medical Abortion (The Abortion Pill)
This method uses two drugs to end and expel the pregnancy at home. Cramping and bleeding will occur, but for some, the pain can be more intense than anticipated.
Some risks to consider include incomplete abortion, severe bleeding, and possible infection.
Surgical Abortion
This procedure takes place in a clinic or hospital setting. It involves opening the cervix so that tools, such as suction devices or forceps, can be used to remove the pregnancy from the uterus.
Potential risks include things like infection, injury to the uterus or cervix, and complications that could affect future fertility.
2. Explore All Your Pregnancy Options
Abortion is not your only choice. Other options include parenting and adoption. Understanding each path can help you make the decision that’s best for you.
Here are a few helpful questions to ask yourself:
- What do I want to know about each option?
- What are my biggest fears or hesitations?
- If I could choose freely, without outside pressure, what would I choose?
- How will each decision impact my future?
Our care team is here to walk alongside you as you consider your options.
3. Get an Ultrasound
Getting an ultrasound is a key step before making any decision. This scan provides crucial information, like how far along you are and whether the pregnancy is developing.
For example, a medical abortion is only FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation. An ultrasound helps determine whether that method is potentially an option for you, and it can also check for complications such as ectopic pregnancy.
We’re Here to Help
You don’t have to go through this alone. At FirstLook, our care team is ready to provide free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, and a safe space to ask questions and explore your next steps.
Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment.
*FirstLook does not provide or refer for abortions.
*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.