If you’re dealing with an unplanned pregnancy, and parenting doesn’t seem possible for you right now, you still have two options: abortion and adoption.
It’s crucial that you get fully informed about both to safeguard your health and wellness.
You don’t have to do this alone. Compass Women’s Clinic of Athens is here to offer the counseling and support you need to make a decision you can be confident about. Reach out to us today.
Continue reading to learn more about abortion and adoption.
Considering Abortion
Abortion is the process of terminating a viable pregnancy. There are two types: medical and surgical. They are both serious medical procedures with risks you should be aware of.
Early in pregnancy, a medical abortion (known as the abortion pill) is available through ten weeks gestation (how far along you are). Past that, you would require a surgical abortion.
Medical abortion uses drugs to end a pregnancy. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, while misoprostol causes uterine contractions and expels the pregnancy from the uterus.
The risks of a medical abortion include:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Surgical abortion uses a combination of drugs, small instruments, and suction while dilating the cervix to remove a pregnancy.
The risks of a surgical abortion include:
- Uterine perforation (this occurs when one of the medical instruments pokes a hole in your uterus)
- Uterine scarring, which can lead to painful periods or future infertility
- Cervical damage
- Infection
Considering Adoption
Adoption requires that you carry your pregnancy to term. However, modern adoption gives you more flexibility and control than ever before.
With adoption, you get to choose the adoptive family and the means of communication with them. You won’t pay for adoption services and may even be able to get financial and material support for your pregnancy.
There are three types of adoption plans: open, semi-open, and closed. Each option allows you to choose the level of contact and privacy you want.
Before You Decide
Before you make a decision, it’s essential that you get an ultrasound to confirm key details about your pregnancy that can unlock your options moving forward.
At Compass Women’s Clinic of Athens, we offer a no-cost ultrasound exam. Get a free appointment today by contacting us.
