Do you qualify for an abortion?
Before taking abortion pills or scheduling an abortion appointment, ensure your health and safety by following these necessary steps:
- Take a Pregnancy Test If you’ve missed your period and are experiencing symptoms like breast tenderness, bloating, fatigue, cramping, or nausea, take a urine pregnancy test at home or get a free pregnancy test at Hand’n Hand Women’s Center. While home tests are generally accurate, meeting with a medical provider for a test that is 99% accurate is recommended.
- Get an Ultrasound While a pregnancy test detects pregnancy hormones in your urine, it doesn’t confirm viability. Approximately 1 in 4 pregnancies do not carry to term, and up to 20% end on their own before 12 weeks. A free limited OB ultrasound will confirm if your pregnancy is viable, ensuring you don’t undergo the unnecessary effects of an abortion for a non-viable pregnancy. Additionally, an ultrasound will confirm the pregnancy’s location, crucial for ruling out an ectopic pregnancy, which can be dangerous if abortion pills are taken.
- Determine How Far Along You Are Many women miscalculate their pregnancy dates. While knowing the first day of your last period (LMP) is helpful, ovulation times vary. Since the abortion pill is FDA-approved up to 10 weeks (70 days) from LMP, an ultrasound can accurately confirm the pregnancy’s age, aiding in your decision-making process.
- Get Tested for STI/STDs Undetected infections can cause complications during an abortion and affect future reproductive health. Chlamydia and gonorrhea, the most common STDs, can be detected through urine tests. Get a free STD test before your abortion to protect your health.
- Learn About Procedures, Side Effects, and Risks It’s crucial to be fully informed before any medical procedure. Whether you choose pills or a surgical procedure, educate yourself on how it works, its effects on your body, and potential future implications. Medical professionals can guide you through the specifics to ensure you feel confident in your decision.
- Research Your Potential Abortion Provider’s Credentials Be fully informed about the healthcare provider you entrust with your health. Ensure they are reputable, in good standing with the medical board, and affiliated with a hospital for emergency follow-up care if needed.
Call us: (636) 464-8400 or Text Us: (314) 313-1794
7024 US Hwy 61-67, Barnhart, MO 63012