If you’re typing “abortion facts” or “abortion near me” into your search bar, you may be navigating a very challenging moment. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, confused, or even alone right now.
There’s good news, though: You’re not alone, and taking time to gather accurate information is a smart first step. We’ve got some important abortion facts – based on reliable data – and a practical health and safety checklist to help you (inspired by the one at athomeabortionfacts.com).
Our goal is simple: to provide factual, friendly guidance that empowers you to make the choice that’s right for you. Remember, every situation is unique, and we’re here to help if you want to talk through your options.
Let’s start with some basic facts, and then we’ll walk through the checklist step by step, explaining why each point matters and how it can help ensure your well-being. Hopefully, this will give you a clearer picture of what to consider, and we’ll share ways to connect with support.
Let’s get started – take it at your own pace. And remember you can always click that “Schedule an Appointment” button to schedule a time to come and see us. Our appointments are always free and confidential.
Key Abortion Facts You Should Know
Before diving into the checklist, let’s cover some key abortion facts. There are two main types of abortions: medication (often called the abortion pill) and surgical.
Medication abortion involves taking pills like mifepristone and misoprostol [1]. Surgical abortions, done in a clinic, are procedures that usually involve aspiration or dilation and evacuation [2]. Safety is a top concern for anyone researching abortion facts. As with any medical procedure, there are risks, such as bleeding, infection, or incomplete abortion [3].
If you’re searching “abortion near me,” keep in mind that access varies by state. Traveling for an abortion can be costly, and there are a lot of factors to consider, so pausing to review a checklist can help you prepare. Visit our blog on Traveling for Abortion Services to learn more.
Understanding Your Pregnancy Options
Facing an unplanned pregnancy may seem overwhelming, but you’ve got multiple options. Abortion is one option, but it’s worth exploring all paths to ensure you’re confident in your choice.
Parenting might involve building a support network, accessing resources like WIC (the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children) [4] or childcare assistance, and embracing the joys and challenges of raising a child.
Adoption offers various types – open, semi-open, or closed – allowing you to choose the level of involvement while giving your child a loving home. Each has emotional, physical, and financial implications, and no decision is easy. But no matter what you choose, you don’t have to go through this alone. Support is available, and organizations like ours can connect you with counseling, financial aid, or community resources without judgment.
The Abortion Health & Safety Checklist: Step-by-Step Guidance
Now, let’s turn to the core of this blog: the Abortion Health & Safety Checklist. This tool is designed to help you pause, reflect, and gather information before moving forward. Your health and safety – both physical and emotional – are worth taking this time and exploring your options. If something in this blog doesn’t make sense, don’t hesitate to reach out. We are always here to help you find answers.
Before You Decide
The checklist starts with a reminder: An abortion may seem like a quick solution, but every choice – parenting, adoption, and even abortion – has lifelong effects. Take your time to research.
Why this matters: Decisions made too quickly or made while panicked can lead to regret or overlooked details. Start by confirming your pregnancy. A home test is a good first step, but an ultrasound can verify viability and gestational age. About 1 in 5 pregnancies end in miscarriage [5] naturally, so knowing this early avoids unnecessary steps.
Next, determine how far along you are (abortion options may change based on this information), and check for ectopic pregnancy, which requires immediate care to prevent rupture. (We may be able to help you with this. Schedule a free, confidential appointment to find out.)
Get tested for STIs—untreated infections can complicate procedures. (We provide free testing and treatment for some common STIs, as well.)
Friendly tip: If you’re feeling pressured by a partner, family, or circumstances, that’s a red flag. Ensure your decision is yours alone – no one should (be allowed to) force you.
Review the Statements
The checklist encourages reviewing key statements and checking those that apply. If you can’t check them all, gather more info.
- Am I 100% sure I’m pregnant? Have I confirmed my pregnancy with a medical test?
- Have I had an ultrasound to confirm my pregnancy and ensure that it is progressing normally? This ensures the pregnancy is viable and not ectopic.
- Have I carefully researched all abortion procedures and the physical and/or emotional risks involved? We’re here to help you get information about these procedures so you understand what’s involved and what any applicable risks may be.
- Has the abortion clinic shown me – in writing – that they will care for me if I experience any side effects or complications?
- Does the abortion doctor have admitting privileges at a nearby hospital? Do I have documentation proving this?
- Have I researched the abortion clinic’s legal and safety record? Am I confident they are trustworthy and reputable?
- Have I been tested for STIs?
- Have I been screened for Rh factor? Do I need a Rhogam shot?
- Have I carefully researched fetal development?
If you answered “no” or are unsure about any of these questions, pause. You don’t have to make a rushed decision. You deserve to be equipped with all the facts so you can make the best decision for your situation.
Know Your Rights and Safety
You have the right to leave any clinic if you feel uncomfortable – no one can legally detain you. Coercion is real; some women feel pressured by partners or family members or even their financial situation. You have rights, and your feelings matter.
Additional Information on Abortion Pill Providers
Some online providers suggest not disclosing the use of the abortion pill to doctors, but honesty is key for follow-up care. If you take the abortion pill and have complications, it’s important to seek medical care, and it’s important that those medical professionals know what you’ve taken and when so they can provide the best care for you.
Ordering medication online is not risk-free. To learn more about the abortion pill, visit these blogs on our website:
Receiving Confidential Help: We’re Here for You
The bottom line is this: This is a big decision, and you don’t have to face it alone.
All of our services are free and confidential. We never ask for payment or insurance. This is a safe space where you can come and ask questions, talk things through with medical professionals, and find support.
If you’ve already taken the abortion pill and have changed your mind, it may not be too late to reverse it. Call or text our 24/7 help line at 417-559-1773 to get connected with a local medical professional who may be able to help you with Abortion Pill Reversal.
If you want to learn more about Abortion Pill Reversal, read our blog I Took the Abortion Pill, but I’ve Changed My Mind.
At PLL, we’re dedicated to helping women like you as you face this decision. Whether you’re exploring abortion facts or just need someone to listen, reach out. We offer confidential chats, resources, and connections to local support – no pressure, just help.
Sources:
- Mifepristone (Oral Route). Mayo Clinic. (January 2026). https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/mifepristone-oral-route/description/drg-20067123#:~:text=Mifepristone%20is%20used%20in%20a%20regimen%20together%20with%20misoprostol%20to%20end%20a%20pregnancy
- Dilation and Curettage (D&C). Mayo Clinic. (November 2023). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dilation-and-curettage/about/pac-20384910#:~:text=Dilation%20and%20curettage%20(D%26C)%20is%20a%20procedure%20to%20remove%20tissue%20from%20inside%20your%20uterus.%20Health%20care%20professionals%20perform%20dilation%20and%20curettage%20to%20diagnose%20and%20treat%20certain%20uterine%20conditions%20%E2%80%94%20such%20as%20heavy%20bleeding%20%E2%80%94%20or%20to%20clear%20the%20uterine%20lining%20after%20a%20miscarriage%20or%20abortion.
- See #2.
- WIC: USDA’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. (November 2025). https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic
- Miscarriage. Mayo Clinic. (September 2023). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes/syc-20354298#:~:text=About%2010%25%20to%2020%25%20of%20known%20pregnancies%20end%20in%20miscarriage.%20But%20the%20actual%20number%20is%20likely%20higher.%20This%20is%20because%20many%20miscarriages%20happen%20early%20on%2C%20before%20people%20realize%20they%27re%20pregnant.