After a woman has decided that ending the pregnancy is the best decision, there are steps she can take to emotionally prepare for a pregnancy termination procedure. This guide aims to provide you with a step-by-step approach to help you navigate your feelings will learn about:-
- How to emotionally control your emotions.
- What to expect when you arrive at the abortion clinic.
- What to carry on your appointment date to the clinic
Key Points!
Preparing for an abortion is very important because each woman might experience the whole situation differently. Some women might undergo a range of emotions and reactions, while others might just want to get it done and move on with their lifes as normal
So how would one prepare for a termination of pregnancy?
Being both emotionally and physically prepared before your abortion appointment is crucial, as it can significantly help in reducing anxiety and creating a more positive experience. Below are a few steps that can help you foster a sense of control and calmness.
Medical and Legal Considerations
- Consult with a Healthcare Provider: It’s crucial to talk with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your options, confirm the pregnancy, and understand the different methods of termination available based on the gestation period of the pregnancy.
- Understand the Procedure: There are different types of procedures, such as medical termination (using medication) and surgical termination. The method depends on how far along the pregnancy is, personal preferences, and medical considerations.
- Legal Requirements: Laws vary depending on where you live, so make sure you understand the legal considerations, such as gestational limits, consent requirements, and waiting periods that might apply in your area.
Financial Considerations
- Cost of the Procedure: Check with your healthcare provider and insurance (if applicable) about the prices for terminating pregnancies. Some abortion centers or organizations may offer financial assistance if needed.
- Insurance Coverage: If you have insurance, verify what’s covered under your plan. Some insurance plans may cover part or all of the procedure costs, while others may not.
Emotional Preparation
- Emotional Impact: It’s normal to experience a range of emotions, including relief, sadness, or anxiety. Talking to a counselor or therapist may be beneficial, as they can provide support before, during, and after the procedure.
- Support System: Having someone you trust, like a friend or family member, can be comforting. They can offer practical support, help with transportation, or just be there to listen and provide emotional support.
- Journaling:- keep a list of any lingering questions or concerns and bring them to along on your appointment date.
Physical Preparation
Physical preparation involves careful consideration and planning, which can vary significantly depending whether the medication will be self administered or used while on the clinic premises.
- Pre-Procedure Instructions: Depending on the procedure, you may need to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours beforehand. Your healthcare provider will give you specific guidelines.
- Potential Risks: Understand the possible risks associated with the procedure, such as infection, excessive bleeding, or complications, though these are typically rare when performed under medical supervision.
What to expect when at the clinic
Step-by -Step Guide!
Before the actual procedure takes place, an assessment will have to conducted physically at the clinic but it can also be conducted via a virtual platform like, a phone or video assessment also referred to as a Telehealth consultation.
During the assessment:-
- You will have the opportunity to discuss with the counsellor why you considered abortion.
- The clinic might also want to know more about your previous medical history like what you’re allergic too or any medication you currently using.
- The best pregnancy termination method according to you situation will be explained offered will be discussed with you in detail like, what to expect, side effects and recovery times.
- Pregnancy testing / ultrasound scan will also be conducted to conform duration of pregnancy.
- Other tests including sexual transmitted diseases and Hiv / Aids will also be conducted as a precautionary measure.
Then when you contented with all that was discussed with the nurse, you will be required to sign a consent form confirming that you allow the abortion clinic to assist you terminate the pregnancy.
Medical abortion
If the pregnancy is still is till in its early stages and there are no complications detected by the ultrasound, a medication abortion would be ideal
- You will be required to swallow the first abortion tablet Mifepristone, which is meant to prepare the body. it can be taken while at the abortion clinic or in your own privacy at home.
- 12 – 24 hours later, the second abortion tablets Misoprostol will be taken and its these that will cause the lining of the womb to break down, causing abdominal cramping, bleeding and loss of pregnancy.
Surgical termination
An in-clinic abortion also referred to as surgical termination of pregnancy, involves a minor operation to remove the pregnancy from the womb.
- Before the surgery to terminate the pregnancy, you will be required to take medicine meant to dilate the cervix opening. This is done a few hours before the termination takes place depending on the anaesthetic or sedation to be used.
- On the day of the procedure, the doctor will use special medical equipment like a tube with a suction inserted into the uterus through the cervix to remove the pregnancy.
After-care
After the termination, all that will be required of you is to take good care of yourself to ensure that you heal and recovery well without any complications.
- If it was a medication procedure, you might need to visit the abortion clinic again for a physical examination just to confirm that the pregnancy was completely expelled.
- With surgical procedures one does not usually require to have any other tests or appointments after.
As a precautionary measure a follow up appointment would be ideal to be scheduled at least 2 weeks later to ensure your healing well and also discuss family planning options to avoid unintended future pregnancies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! immediately when the pregnancy has been expelled bleeding will be massive to an extent that you might even mess your pants. However as minutes progress it will become light that a normal sanitary pad can handle the blood flow.
Yes self medication is safe as long as you have not exceed the recommended time frame of using abortion medication.
Additionally, it is of paramount importance to obtain detailed, accurate information on the proper self-administration of the abortion pills at home. This includes understanding the dosage, timing, and potential side effects or risks associated with the abortion tablets.
It is important to remember that teens have rights to abortion and can also purchase abortion medication but they will have a follow a certain protocol:-
- You will need to get consent from a parent or legal guardian
- You can get a lawyer who will privately meet with a judge and give permission for termination without telling your parents.
- Alternatively you may request a friend to order the abortion medication on your behalf via a Tele-abortion platform
