Depending on where you live and the type of procedure you need, abortion can be expensive. Most insurance companies only cover medical procedures for someone related to you, such as a child, or if the person is legally married to you. However, check with your insurance company to see if there are any limitations.
Are You Aware of the Risks of Abortion?
Before assuming abortion is your best option, you and your girlfriend should learn about abortion methods, side effects, and potential physical and emotional risks. It’s not as safe and easy as it may seem.
The abortion provider determines the method used by how far along she is in her pregnancy. Do you both know the date she became pregnant? If not, we recommend an ultrasound.
Has She Miscarried?
You also want to know if the pregnancy is viable. A “viable” pregnancy is growing and has a detectable heartbeat. You can see and hear it on an ultrasound.
The Mayo Clinic says up to 20% of pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage. The amount could be higher because many women experience a miscarriage before they even realize they are pregnant. It is possible to get a positive pregnancy test days or weeks after a miscarriage.
Is it an Ectopic Pregnancy?
Although rare, she needs to know the location of the pregnancy because some pregnancies grow in the wrong place. This type is called an ectopic pregnancy and is extremely dangerous. Only an ultrasound can reveal the location of a pregnancy, and an abortion does not solve this serious problem.
Where Can She Get a Free Ultrasound?
The medical team at the Pregnancy Resource Center provides free and confidential pregnancy testing and ultrasounds. Our lab-quality pregnancy tests have a 99% accuracy rate, and taking one is her first step.
If the test is positive, she can receive a free ultrasound. An ultrasound reveals how far along she is, the pregnancy’s location, and if it is ectopic. This is critical information before she has an abortion.
Could She Have an STI?
No one wants to admit that it’s possible to have a sexually transmitted infection (STI), but it’s more common than most people realize. Even if neither of you have symptoms, you could be infected.
If she’s considering abortion, getting tested first is essential. Depending on the type of abortion and STI, there could be serious complications.
What Should We Do Next?
If your girlfriend and you are facing an unexpected pregnancy, don’t rush for an abortion before getting the facts. There are things you and she need to know for her health and safety first. Although we do not perform or refer for abortions, we can get you the information you need.
Schedule an appointment at the Pregnancy Resource Center to receive free pregnancy services and talk with a member of our medical staff. You can fill out our confidential online contact form or call or text to get our Mobile Medical Unit schedule. Phone us at 970-945-5562 or text us at 970-707-8325.
We’re here for both of you.