What Are the Different Types of Abortion?

Abortion, Uncategorized

If you’re considering abortion, it’s important to understand the various options that may be available to you, as well as the risks and side effects related to each.

There are two main types of abortion, including medical abortions (also called the abortion pill) and surgical abortions. BsideU for Life is here to help you learn more about the pregnancy options available to you so you can make an empowered and educated choice for your future.

Medical Abortion

Medical abortion, or the abortion pill, is a form of chemical abortion available to women in the first 70 days, or ten weeks, of pregnancy. This process requires taking two drugs, Mifepristone and Misoprostol.

Mifepristone is used to end the pregnancy by preventing the body from absorbing the necessary amounts of progesterone, while Misoprostol is taken later to cause contractions and force the pregnancy tissue from the womb.
 

Surgical Abortion Procedures

The two main forms of surgical abortions are Suction Curettage and Dilation and Evacuation (D&E). The type of surgical abortion procedure used largely depends on how far along the pregnancy is at the time of the procedure. 

Suction Curettage Abortions

A Suction Curettage abortion is typically used in the first trimester of pregnancy. During this procedure, the abortion provider will dilate the cervix and insert a plastic tube into the uterus. A suctioning device connected to the tube will then be used to pull apart and suction the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.

To ensure there is no retained fetal tissue, the abortion provider will scrape the uterus using a curette tool. Retained fetal tissue, also called an incomplete abortion, can lead to infection, sepsis, or hemorrhaging.

Dilation and Evacuation Abortion

Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) abortion procedures are used in the second trimester of pregnancy due to the more developed stage of the fetus. In this procedure, the abortion provider will dilate the cervix and use forceps to break apart and remove the bones and tissue of the pregnancy, as well as the placenta.

What Are the Side Effects and Risks Related to Abortion? 

Before undergoing an abortion procedure, take time to educate yourself regarding the side effects and risks you may face.

When taking the abortion pill, women may experience side effects including nausea, fever, chills, dizziness, diarrhea, weakness, vomiting, and headaches, as well as more severe health risks such as infection, sepsis, and hemorrhaging.

In addition to bleeding and cramping, surgical abortions may result in health risks including infection, prolonged bleeding, uterine perforation, and injury to the cervix.

Is Abortion Right for Me? 

Knowing if abortion is the right pregnancy choice for you is not easy. Thankfully, the more information you have, the more empowered and sure you will be as you make a choice for your pregnancy.

Before deciding if abortion is right for you, it’s important to receive pre-abortion screenings, including pregnancy testing, an ultrasound scan, STI testing, and a medical consultation.

Looking for free pregnancy services? BsideU for Life provides the necessary pre-abortion screenings, as well as helpful information on all of the options and resources available to you — all at no cost!

Visit BsideU for Life today to learn more about your eligibility for various pregnancy options, understand your risk factors, and explore our empowering education and resource programs!

Schedule your free appointment today! 

Is Abortion or Adoption Right for Me?

Abortion

You may have already ruled out parenting as an option for your unplanned pregnancy. Many women don’t feel ready to parent due to difficult life circumstances, and that’s ok. Now you have two other pregnancy options: abortion and adoption. As you consider both, it’s important to receive clarity about the effects of each option.

No matter which option you choose, it will impact your future in some way. We are here to help you navigate through this major life change and give you the information you need to make a confident decision.

How Does Abortion Work?

If you’re considering the option of abortion, you may be asking many questions like, “Is abortion safe?” or “Does abortion have a lot of health risks?” We know how serious this decision is.

There are two main types of abortion: medical and surgical abortion. These different medical procedures are done at different points of pregnancy (medical abortion is only for women up to 10 weeks pregnant). Both procedures work to terminate a pregnancy, either through two forms of medication (mifepristone and misoprostol) or a surgical procedure.                       

The Risks of Abortion

Abortion and adoption each have an emotional impact, but abortion also comes with many physical health risks.

Risks of medical abortion include infection, incomplete abortion (followed up by surgical abortion), heavy bleeding, fever, and digestive system discomfort. With surgical abortion comes risks, including damage to the womb or cervix, uterine perforation, excessive bleeding, infection, and scarring of the inside of the uterus.

Before you schedule an appointment for an abortion, talk to our team today. We can help with the following: 

  • Confirm you are pregnant
  • Determine how far along you are
  • Educate yourself on the different abortion procedures
  • Investigate the alternatives to abortion

What is the Process of Adoption?

Adoption has changed drastically over the years. These days, the birth mother and father create an adoption plan. You have the option to choose the adoptive family and what kind of relationship you want with them. Choose from three plans: open, closed, and semi-open. Your decision is based on the amount of one-on-one contact you want with the adoptive family and your child.

The Emotional Impact of Adoption 

It’s important to understand that adoption is not always easy. There are emotional side effects that come with this option. Some of the common ones include:

  • Anger/guilt
  • Stages of grief
  • Depression 
  • Trauma from separation

Knowing the impact of adoption is important to understand before making a final decision. Talk to our team today to get your questions answered so you can take your next step.

Making Your Decision

You have a big decision ahead of you, but you don’t have to make it alone. We are here to talk more with you about abortion and adoption options. Our pregnancy confirmation services and options counseling are completely free and confidential. We are ready to share accurate information on abortion and adoption while listening to your concerns. 

Schedule an Appointment

Schedule a free appointment today to get started. 

 

How an Adoption Plan Can Prevent Depression Caused by Abortion

Abortion, Uncategorized

Making a pregnancy decision when facing an unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming. Each choice involves some level of loss in the process. When choosing adoption, you can reduce the loss by staying in communication with your child after placement. 

Though it’s challenging, adoption can significantly impact you and your child’s future. Choosing adoption can even prevent depression caused by abortion, though it comes with some side effects of its own. Keep reading to learn more.

Abortion Vs. Adoption

Only you know what is best for you and your future. Neither adoption nor abortion is an easy choice to make. Take the time to learn as much as possible about both options. 

Abortion

The option of abortion works to end an existing pregnancy and comes with significant health and emotional side effects.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) published an article examining different studies of the effect abortion has on mental health. It concluded:

  1. “There are no findings of mental health benefits associated with abortion.”
  2. “In most analyses, the association between abortion and higher rates of anxiety, depression, substance use, traumatic symptoms, sleep disorders, and other negative outcomes is statistically significant.”

According to numerous studies, if you already struggle with depression, which many women do, an abortion could worsen mental health issues.

Adoption

Choosing adoption can be a painful experience emotionally, as no one is ready to place their child with an adoptive family. Though it may not be as traumatic as abortion, adoption is emotionally difficult for many birth mothers.

The Process of Adoption

As the birth mother, you completely control the adoption process. Depending on what kind of contact you want with your child and the adoptive family, you have adoption options. You can remain completely anonymous if that is better for your lifestyle or have open contact. There is no pressure to choose any type of adoption – but it’s entirely up to you.

Making a Decision

We know the emotions you may be feeling at this moment when thinking of adoption. Only you truly know your life’s situation and the best choice. It’s important to consider all your options as they will affect your future. 

Get more information on abortion, adoption, parenting, & pregnancy at our center today. We can sit down with you and answer any questions or concerns you have about adoption. Our compassionate team is here to listen and help.

Schedule a free and confidential appointment today.

What Are the Risks of Abortion?

Abortion, Uncategorized

In this blog we want to share the common risks of abortion and what to expect from abortion. Many women don’t know what they are getting into when moving forward with abortion. But you deserve to know the facts.

Here at BsideU for Life, we care about women and that’s why we offer free pregnancy services and support so you feel sure about your next step.

Common Risks of Abortion

There are two main types of abortion: medication abortion and surgical abortion. Each works to end an existing pregnancy through a series of medications or through surgery. With both types of abortion come serious risks. 

Risks of Medication Abortion

There are two abortion drugs involved in medication abortion, Mifepristone and Misoprostol. It’s important to know that only women 10 weeks pregnant or earlier are eligible for this type of abortion. The risks of these two drugs include…

  • Incomplete abortion (may need to be followed by surgical abortion)
  • An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
  • Infection
  • Fever
  • Digestive system discomfort
  • Heavy and prolonged bleeding

Risks of Surgical Abortion

The two most common types of surgical abortion are aspiration abortions and a D&E (Dilation and Evacuation) abortion procedure. The type of surgical abortion procedure you receive depends on how far along you are, only known through an ultrasound. The risks of surgical abortion include…

  • Damage to the womb or cervix
  • Uterine perforation (accidentally putting a hole in the uterus with one of the instruments used)
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes
  • Scarring of the inside of the uterus
  • Not removing all of the tissue, requiring another procedure

Make Sure You’re Pregnant

It’s crucial to your health that you confirm your pregnancy before making a final pregnancy decision, even after taking an at-home pregnancy test. A lab-quality pregnancy test and ultrasound will give you vital details to help you take the next step in your journey.

Schedule a free and confidential pregnancy confirmation appointment with us to be sure. We can also help answer your questions about any pregnancy options. We are here for you!

What Are the Signs of an Incomplete Abortion?

Abortion, Uncategorized

Whether you already had an abortion or are thinking of getting one, it’s important to understand one of the major risks: an incomplete abortion. What are the signs of incomplete abortion and how do you know if you are experiencing it? Seek medical attention right away if you have any of the below signs, or are still unsure about certain side effects you’re facing after abortion.

What is an Incomplete Abortion?

An incomplete abortion is one of the many risks of both surgical and medical abortion. It happens after terminating a pregnancy when the contents of the uterus are not completely expelled. There are still small parts of the pregnancy left in the womb. 

If you have an incomplete abortion, you are at an increased risk for infection, so it’s vital to seek medical attention right away. Normally the next step is another abortion procedure to remove what’s left of the pregnancy. 

Top Signs of Incomplete Abortion

There are painful symptoms of incomplete abortion. It is more common to experience after a medical abortion (the abortion pill) but there is still a chance of incomplete abortion with surgical abortion procedures. 

Seek immediate attention from a medical professional if you experience any of these signs of incomplete abortion:

  • Moderate to severe vaginal bleeding (saturating more than one pad an hour)
  • Lower abdominal and/or pain 
  • Pain in the back, buttocks, genitalia, and perineum 
  • Passing blood clots
  • A fever

Other Abortion Risks

Abortion is a serious medical procedure that comes with major risks and side effects. Some other risks of abortion could include infection, fever, damage to the cervix, excessive bleeding, and more. 

Contact us today to talk with our team about abortion or other pregnancy options. We are here to help with free and confidential services and support.

Why You Need an Ultrasound Before an Abortion

Abortion

You may think a positive pregnancy test is all you need to make a decision about your unplanned pregnancy, but there’s more to know. For instance, how long have you been pregnant? Is your pregnancy viable (living and growing), or have you had a miscarriage? A limited obstetrical ultrasound is one of the best ways to get answers. You especially need an ultrasound before an abortion.

What Is An Ultrasound?

An ultrasound is usually performed in the first trimester of your pregnancy. It’s an imaging technique that uses sound waves to produce images of the inside of your uterus.

When an ultrasound is performed, a gel is first placed on your abdomen. A technician uses an instrument called a transducer to rub through the gel. The transducer picks up the echoes of sound waves to create an image and detect a heartbeat. 

Before An Abortion

The type of abortion you’re eligible for is determined by the number of days you’ve been pregnant. For your safety, a medical abortion, also known as the abortion pill, should not be performed after 70 days from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). 

Why is the number of days so important? The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) writes, “Clinicians should counsel patients that medication abortion failure rates, especially continuing pregnancy rates, increase as gestational age approaches 10 weeks (70 days).” In other words, the longer your pregnancy goes on, the greater the possibility of having a failed medical abortion.

Why You Need an Ultrasound Before an Abortion

At BsideU For Life, our pregnancy tests are 97%-99% accurate. However, a urine-based pregnancy test only indicates the pregnancy hormone hCG was detected. If you’re considering abortion, here’s what you need to know. 

Are You Actually Pregnant or Have You Had a Miscarriage?

According to the Mayo Clinic, up to 20% and possibly more known pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage. It’s entirely possible to get a positive test result from a pregnancy test and no longer be pregnant. If you’ve miscarried, your body needs time to expel the pregnancy tissue and hormones.

You’ll know if your pregnancy is viable with an ultrasound. The technician can detect a heartbeat and see movement. 

How Far Along Are You?

The abortion pill method requires you to take two very powerful drugs. The first drug is taken at a clinic, under the instruction of the doctor. You take the second drug at home. This drug causes your body to expel the pregnancy tissue.

If you’re farther than 70 days, your body may not be able to pass the pregnancy on its own. This is why you’re encouraged to have a backup plan if you need assistance.

The Location of Your Pregnancy

Sometimes a pregnancy isn’t located in your uterus. An ectopic pregnancy is when the pregnancy is located in the fallopian tubes or pelvic region outside of the uterus. This can be a life-threatening medical situation, and you should see a medical professional immediately. 

Schedule an Appointment for Help

The team at BsideU For Life is ready to help you with many free and confidential pregnancy services. Take a free pregnancy test and a member of our team will see if you qualify for an ultrasound. 

We never want you to feel alone during your pregnancy journey. We’re here to give you the information and support you need. Schedule an appointment and let’s begin talking about your future.

What is the Abortion Pill?

Abortion

The abortion pill is a medication that can often be misunderstood. Whether you are curious about the abortion pill or you are determined to take it, we want you to understand all of the facts about this abortion method. 

People often think that when they take the abortion pill their pregnancy will be terminated almost immediately. However, the abortion pill is significantly more complex than you may realize. 

The abortion pill is actually comprised of two pills, taken separately, with risks associated with each drug. We strongly encourage you to understand these risks before taking the abortion pill.

The Procedure of the Abortion Pill

There are only two variations of abortion: medication (the abortion pill) and surgical. Medication abortion is sometimes also referred to as a chemical abortion, due to the procedure’s emphasis on chemically modifying the lining of the uterus. 

Only those who are within the first ten weeks of their pregnancy are eligible for a medication abortion. If the pregnancy is past ten weeks, a surgical abortion is required for pregnancy termination.

Prior to engaging in an abortion procedure, you need to have an ultrasound. The ultrasound determines how far along you are in your pregnancy, and if your pregnancy is viable. A viable pregnancy indicates a heartbeat is detected and the fetus is growing inside the uterus. The ultrasound helps you stay safe as you navigate through your decision-making process.

The Drugs Involved with a Medication Abortion

Once your pregnancy is confirmed to be within ten weeks through an ultrasound exam, the medication abortion is an option for you. The medication abortion procedure begins with the first drug, mifepristone (Mifeprex®). This drug hinders the womb’s ability  to absorb progesterone, which is commonly referred to as the “pregnancy hormone.” Progesterone helps the fertilized egg implant on the wall of your uterus. Mifepristone causes the lining of the uterus to thin and prevents the fetus from staying implanted.

After the mifepristone drug is taken and runs its course, Misoprostol is prescribed to complete the medication abortion. The second drug is taken hours or even days after Mifepristone. Misoprostol causes your uterus to contract to expel the fetus.

Risks Associated with the Abortion Pill

Because abortion is a serious medical procedure, it is imperative to be under a doctor’s supervision during the procedure. It is always wise to ask about some of the potential side effects. Make sure the doctor knows your health history, too.

Below are a few of the risks associated with abortion, provided by Mayo Clinic 

  • severe abdominal cramping 
  • blood clots or heavy bleeding during the passing of the fetus
  • fever, sometimes indicating a pelvic infection
  • incomplete abortion, requiring a follow-up surgical procedure

To ensure your own safety, immediately seek medical attention if you experience a rapid heart rate, shaking chills, or strenuous breathing. 

A large percentage of women have reported struggling with mental health issues in relation to their abortion decision. If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression prior to your abortion procedure, it is highly recommended that you share your feelings with a trusted loved one, and consider seeking help from a mental health professional.

Where to Begin

Our team exists to help people who think they may be pregnant. At BsideU for Life, we can help you understand the abortion pill procedure or other abortion methods fully. In addition, we can confirm your pregnancy with confidential, no-cost pregnancy testing. If you test positive, we can also perform a no-cost ultrasound to tell you how far along your pregnancy is, as well as determine the location of the fetus.

Schedule your appointment today. We would love to partner with you during this time that is often marked by emotion and confusion. You do not have to do this alone.

Three Things Needed Before an Abortion

Abortion

You weren’t expecting this. It’s possible that when those two pink lines appeared, your first reaction was full of fear, anxiety, and worry. When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, it’s normal to feel a myriad of emotions. Maybe your head has already become clouded with future scenarios and “what ifs.” For many women in this situation, abortion is the first thing that comes to mind. 

Your friends at BsideU for Life are here to give you evidence-based information on abortion procedures as well as free and confidential services and tests that should come before your abortion appointment. Because abortion is a serious medical procedure, it’s essential that you are provided with all the information you need to make an educated decision about your pregancy. We’re here to help confirm your pregnancy, understand your options, and answer any of your questions (even the awkward ones)!  

Here’s a list of three crucial things you’ll need to do before any abortion:

1. Pregnancy Test

Prior to scheduling your abortion, you’ll want to confirm that you are actually pregnant. For any pregnancy test, it’s best to wait at least one week after your missed period. Even if you’ve taken an at-home pregnancy test, it’s considered best practice to also take a lab-quality test. These tests provide the most accurate results by measuring the hCG in urine. If positive, your test should be followed by an ultrasound scan. 

2. Ultrasound

Before scheduling your abortion, it’s key to get the facts. An ultrasound will help you determine how far along you are, where your pregnancy is located, and whether it is viable.

While there are many apps and tools for tracking your menstrual cycle, it’s likely many women aren’t exactly sure when they conceived their pregnancy, making it impossible to know when they would be due.

Maybe you’re wondering, “If I’m getting an abortion, why would I need to know the due date?” Good question! There are two main types of abortion — the abortion pill and a surgical abortion — and the stage and due date of the pregnancy will determine what kind of abortion procedure you will be eligible to receive. Understanding this will help you prepare mentally for your procedure and allow you to have expectations about your abortion costs, as the procedures vary in expense.

An ultrasound scan is also necessary before your abortion to make sure your pregnancy is viable, meaning a heartbeat can be detected and that the pregnancy is located in the uterus. When the pregnancy is not found in the uterus, it is called an ectopic pregnancy. Not only are ectopic pregnancies not viable, but they can also be dangerous and life-threatening to the woman. Ultrasound scans allow medical professionals to detect ectopic pregnancies before they become a significant risk.

3. Information on All Your Options

When faced with an unplanned pregnancy, women have three options: abortion, adoption, and parenting. You are entitled to education and information on each option available to you, and we are here to help provide you with the resources you need so you can make the best choice for yourself and your future! 

BsideU for Life provides free and confidential pregnancy services, such as pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, options counseling, and resources for whatever choice you make! If you are exploring your options or have already scheduled your abortion appointment, but haven’t yet received lab-quality pregnancy testing or received an ultrasound scan, contact us today to set up your free and confidential appointment!

Schedule a Free Appointment

Schedule your appointment today! We have a caring staff that is willing and able to guide you through this very difficult decision. We are here for you, and we always want you to know the truth about your options.

How to Avoid Paying for an Ultrasound at Planned Parenthood

Abortion, Uncategorized

Getting an ultrasound is an important step in pre-abortion healthcare, but it can often be a challenge to know how to access one and where to go for affordable care. 

In today’s blog, we will address ultrasound basics – what you need to know about your scan — what it is, why it’s important, when and where to get one, and how to avoid paying for one at the abortion clinic.

What is an ultrasound?

Ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to create images that show what’s happening inside of the human body. In pregnancy, they are used to reveal important details and health conditions about the woman and the fetus.

If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, an ultrasound scan is an important step in deciding which pregnancy option is right for you.

Why do I need an ultrasound scan before an abortion?

Are you considering abortion and wondering why you need an ultrasound scan?

Here are a few reasons why ultrasounds are a necessary step in your pre-abortion care:

An ultrasound will identify if your pregnancy is viable
Ultrasounds are the easiest way to confirm that you are pregnant with a viable pregnancy, or, in other words, a pregnancy that has a chance of surviving outside of the womb. Pregnancies that are nonviable will not require typical abortion procedures and you’ll want to discuss your options further with your OB/GYN (and not an abortion provider).  For instance, if you are already miscarrying you don’t need an abortionist to charge you a fee when treatment, if needed from your OB/GYN, may be covered by insurance (when an abortion would not be).

An ultrasound will reveal any concerning health conditions
Abortion can lead to severe health consequences, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to learn about your pregnancy. An ultrasound scan will reveal the potential for major health issues that could raise concern, including ectopic pregnancies. If a sonographer doesn’t see everything expected during a scan, your next appropriate step may be the emergency room, not an abortion provider.

An ultrasound will reveal the gestational age of your pregnancy
Knowing the gestational age of your pregnancy is essential in understanding your abortion options and the costs you might face. For example, the abortion pill is only effective in the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, which means if you are further along, you’re likely not eligible for the procedure.

When should I get an ultrasound? 

Whether or not you are considering abortion, it’s important that you receive an ultrasound scan. It is recommended that your first scan falls within the first 6-8 weeks of pregnancy if you are still weighing your pregnancy options.

Can I avoid paying for an ultrasound at Planned Parenthood? 

While you may be able to access an ultrasound scan at Planned Parenthood or another abortion clinic, you will likely have to cover the cost of the scan on top of the other services you will be paying for out-of-pocket.

With a positive pregnancy test result at BsideU, you can get some of the answers you are looking for with a no-cost ultrasound scan, provided your pregnancy is far enough along.  Doing so may help you avoid all the costs associated with a visit to an abortion provider, especially if you discover you don’t need them, but a visit to your regular OB/GYN instead.  Schedule an appointment at BsideU for Life–our clinic provides no-cost pregnancy testing, ultrasound scans, STI testing, and more to help you make an empowered choice for your pregnancy!

Schedule your free appointment today! 

Will KY Medicaid Pay for My Abortion (whether surgical or chemical)?

Abortion

Receiving the news of your pregnancy can lead to a rollercoaster of emotions. Regardless of how you feel, take time to process and learn about your pregnancy options before moving forward. If you are considering an abortion, surgical or chemical, it may cost more than you expected. Continue reading to learn about Medicaid and abortion coverage in Kentucky.

What Is Medicaid?

Medicaid is a state and federal health insurance program that covers millions of Americans every year. Qualifying individuals include low-income families or, specifically, pregnant women who don’t have medical insurance during their pregnancy. Eligibility for Medicaid differs from state to state, with federal requirements for each. Some states are required to include certain individuals within their Medicaid plan.

Will KY Medicaid Pay for Abortion?

States have different rules regarding insurance coverage for abortion. While some states cover abortion costs, Kentucky does not. Kentucky only meets federal requirements to fund abortion in cases of rape, life endangerment, and incest. 

Without Medicaid coverage on a large number of abortions in Kentucky, you may wonder about the cost of abortion without insurance coverage. Abortion costs will vary based on the gestational age of your pregnancy.

Within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, surgical and chemical abortion typically cost between $500 and $600. If you are over 10 weeks pregnant, a surgical abortion is required, which costs anywhere from $500 to $3,000.  Your actual out-of-pocket expense will differ according to the provider’s pricing.

Get Free Pregnancy Resources

It’s vital to confirm your pregnancy before moving forward with any decisions. Know your abortion eligibility by confirming your pregnancy’s location, viability, and gestational age with lab-quality pregnancy testing followed by an ultrasound.

Receive these free and confidential pregnancy services from our team at BsideU For Life. Our team is here to answer any questions you have concerning your pregnancy options.

Schedule your free appointment with us today to learn more!