Someone thinking about her next steps after finding out she's pregnant

Even if you already have a pregnancy decision like abortion in mind, there are several steps you should follow to protect your health and get all the answers you need. Making a choice you feel confident about is crucial.

If you’re considering abortion, you may wonder the following:

  • Is there any other information I need before deciding?
  • How can I confirm my pregnancy?
  • Do I have all the details needed to prioritize my health and safety?
  • Where can I learn more about all my options, including parenting and adoption?

Next Step Pregnancy Decision and Support Services will walk you through what’s needed before an abortion decision. We’re committed to helping you prioritize your health and well-being. 

Continue reading to learn what steps you should take.

1. Confirm your pregnancy with an ultrasound.

A positive pregnancy test alone does not provide the information needed to make a decision. Only an ultrasound can confirm you’re pregnant and supply essential details.

Our trained medical staff will offer a free ultrasound following a positive pregnancy test with us. With this scan, you’ll learn whether your pregnancy is progressing, where it’s located, and how far along you are. 

These details are critical to selecting an option. For example, medical abortion is FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation only.

An ultrasound can also detect certain conditions requiring further monitoring or treatment. As many as 26% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage, which might need medical attention to prevent complications.

Additionally, some women experience ectopic pregnancies, which occur when the fertilized egg implants in a location other than the uterus. This condition can be life-threatening if left untreated.

This scan is critical to helping you know where your pregnancy stands.

2. Discuss your health history with a provider.

Abortion is a serious decision, and every procedure has risks and side effects. Making a decision without considering your specific health situation and history means you won’t get all the facts. 

For example, the Mayo Clinic states that a medical abortion isn’t an option if you have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place, take a blood thinner or steroid medicines, or can’t access emergency care, among other things. 

It is vital to consider your unique circumstances and discuss your health history with your provider. They can assess any medical conditions you have, allergies, and more—all helping you make a thoughtful decision. 

3. Learn about your options. 

We provide free pregnancy options consultations so you can learn about your options: abortion, adoption, and parenting. In addition to discussing the risks and side effects of abortion, we’ll discuss the resources available if you choose parenting or adoption. 

The pregnancy decision is yours alone. We don’t financially profit from the option you select, and we pledge to treat you with respect. Get everything needed to make an educated choice that considers your well-being and future. 

Let’s Talk

Next Step Pregnancy Decision and Support Services is here as you navigate an unexpected pregnancy. 

Making a confident decision starts with the right resources. Schedule a free and confidential appointment today.

Next Step Pregnancy Decision and Support Services does not provide or refer for abortions. 

All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.