If you’re unexpectedly pregnant and searching for options, you may have learned there are a couple different kinds of abortion procedures: Medical Abortion and In-Clinic Abortion.
Medical Abortion/The Abortion Pill
A Medical Abortion involves the abortion pill(s), and we have a lot of info if you’re considering that. You can read about that on our website, and we’ve also written a blog called The Abortion Pill: Get the Facts.
In-Clinic Abortion/Surgical Abortion
An in-clinic abortion, or a surgical abortion, is a procedure that takes place in an abortion clinic. There are a couple different methods used for an in-clinic abortion.
1. Aspiration Abortion: Your cervix will likely need to be dilated before this procedure takes place. During the procedure, the practitioner uses a medical instrument to remove the baby from the uterus. This typically takes places in the first 12 weeks of a pregnancy [1] and sometimes also involves a sharp curettage instrument, as well. [2]
2. Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): This procedure is more involved than a D&C and involves vacuum aspiration, in addition to use of a medical instrument, to remove the baby from the uterus. This is typically an outpatient procedure, but risks can increase as you get further along in the pregnancy.[3] D&E procedures are typically used after the first trimester. [4]
Risks of In-Clinic Abortions
As with any medical procedure, an in-clinic abortion comes with possible risks – both physically and emotionally. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Women who have multiple surgical abortion procedures may also have more risk of trauma to the cervix.” [5] This could potentially cause problems for future pregnancies. Although it’s less common, there is also the possibility of pulmonary thromboembolism. [6]
So What’s Right for Me?
We get it – that’s a lot of information to process. And there’s so much more information to sift through based on the specifics of your situation. But you don’t have to go through it alone.
At PLL, we’re here to help as you figure out what’s next.
No judgment. No cost. Just facts.
We want you to make an informed decision about your pregnancy and know all the resources that are available to you.
Reach out today to schedule a free consultation.
What Should I Do First if I’m Pregnant?
The most important first step is to confirm the pregnancy. At-home pregnancy tests have come a long way, but they’re still not flawless. A free, medical-grade test at PLL can help you have some peace of mind knowing your results are accurate. Knowing these facts early can help you make an informed decision.
You can also get tested for some common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) while you’re here. This is an important step no matter what you decide to do long-term. We offer free treatment for these STIs, too. (Some STIs have no symptoms, so it’s possible to have an STI and not even know it! [3])
Perhaps the most important thing to note is that you’re not alone as you face these results. We have knowledgeable, compassionate staff who will talk with you through the results and your options in a calm, safe environment. We offer mentorship and education through this entire journey, so you don’t have to face any part of it alone.
An appointment at PLL does not lock you into any decision. It simply gives you accurate information. (You can schedule a free appointment from our website.)
What Are My Pregnancy Options in Missouri?
Abortion laws in Missouri have changed recently, but regardless of the legal landscape, you have options, and we are here to help you navigate them. You can read more about parenting, adoption, and abortion on our website, but we are happy to talk through all of these options with you at a free, confidential appointment.
How Can Free, Local Support Help Me Right Now?
Women facing an unexpected pregnancy in the Ozarks often need more than medical facts. They need practical and emotional support as they face big decisions. Common free or low-cost resources at PLL include:
- Free pregnancy testing
- Free STI testing and treatment for some common STIs
- Mentoring and one-on-one support
- Pregnancy and parenting education
- Referrals for community resources (food, housing assistance, maternity clothes, baby items)
- Information about adoption
- Guidance on navigating local programs such as WIC or other Missouri support services
PLL also offers continued mentoring after the initial visit so you have ongoing encouragement whether you choose parenting or another path. These services are designed for women who feel scared, unsure, or alone.
What If I’m Considering Abortion?
If abortion is on your mind, accurate information matters. Before taking any step, confirming a viable pregnancy and gestational age is medically important. The free testing and ultrasound offered at PLL will help establish those facts.
At PLL, you’ll receive clear, factual explanations of different abortion methods, typical timelines, and known risks. We’ll also discuss alternative options and the resources and support available to you. This conversation happens at your pace. You are never required to decide on the spot.
How Do I Get Started?
You can schedule a free, confidential appointment for pregnancy testing, STI testing, and options counseling. We make the process simple: call, text, or schedule an appointment online. Appointments are usually available quickly, and everything remains private.
Bring any questions you have. Common ones include:
- How accurate is a free pregnancy test?
- What happens during an ultrasound?
- What local resources exist for single moms or adoption?
- How does mentoring work?
This is a safe, judgment-free space.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is everything really free and confidential?
Yes. Pregnancy testing, STI testing (and treatment), mentoring, education, and basic resource referrals are free at PLL Women’s Resource Center in Branson West. Conversations stay private.
Will anyone pressure me?
Sources:
- Understanding Manual Vacuum Aspiration. St. Luke’s. (n.d.) https://www.saintlukeskc.org/health-library/manual-vacuum-aspiration
- Dilation and Curettage with Suction. Medscape. (2024, November 1). https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1848296-overview#:~:text=%22Curettage%22%20refers%20to%20the%20aspiration,of%20first%2Dtrimester%20elective%20abortion.
- Understanding Manual Vacuum Aspiration. St. Luke’s. (n.d.) https://www.saintlukeskc.org/health-library/manual-vacuum-aspiration
- Understanding Dilation and Evacuation (D&E). St. Luke’s (n.d.). https://www.saintlukeskc.org/health-library/understanding-dilation-and-evacuation-de#:~:text=Then%20the%20lining%20of%20the%20uterus%20is%20scraped%20with%20a%20tool%20called%20a%20curette.
- Could an Elective Abortion Increase the Risk of Problems in a Subsequent Pregnancy? Mayo Clinic. (2022, August 3). https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/expert-answers/abortion/faq-20058551
- Could an Elective Abortion Increase the Risk of Problems in a Subsequent Pregnancy? Mayo Clinic. (2022, August 3). https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/expert-answers/abortion/faq-20058551