Is Abortion or Adoption Right for Me?

July 20, 2023

When experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, you need to know about your options. Perhaps someone you know has had a past abortion, or maybe you have a friend who is part of an adoptive family. Now you’re faced with the decision to abort, make an adoption plan or parent. 

It’s more important than ever that you receive accurate, fact-based information. Several community resources can offer you this information, including local pregnancy centers. At Heart to Heart PRC, registered nurses provide free and confidential pregnancy counseling. 

Understanding Abortion Procedures

Abortion is a major decision, and it requires a lot of thought. Two abortion procedures, medical abortion and surgical abortion, are offered.

 A medical abortion uses mifepristone and misoprostol to end an early pregnancy. Surgical abortion uses medication, surgical instruments, and a suctioning technique to remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.

Both procedures share side effects, such as abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. But more serious complications, such as incomplete abortions, can occur. An incomplete abortion occurs when pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus. This condition is very dangerous and often requires another surgical procedure.

Not everyone is eligible for an abortion, especially if they have an IUD, a suspected ectopic pregnancy, or an allergy to the medications used during the procedure. This is not an exhaustive list, however, and it is always best to consult your medical provider beforehand to have a physical exam. 

The Importance of Having an Ultrasound

Regardless of your pregnancy decision, you’ll want to receive an obstetric ultrasound. Ultrasounds offer valuable information about your pregnancy and health, such as:

• Viability: Whether the pregnancy is growing and has a healthy heartbeat 
• Gestational age: How far along you are—this informs you of which abortion procedure you may be eligible for
• Pregnancy location: Informs you whether you have conditions like ectopic pregnancy

Though you may be unsure about your pregnancy decision or even confident in a particular option, you’ll still want to protect your health and confirm essential details to move forward confidently. At Heart to Heart PRC, our nurses can provide a limited obstetrical ultrasound at no cost.

The Adoption Option: Is It Right for You?

Adoption can be a beautiful and complex journey full of heartbreak and hope. A lot has changed about adoption in recent years. Today, women have a say in the entire process now more than ever. There are numerous adoption plans to choose from, including:

• Open adoption: This option allows women to form relationships with the child and adoptive parents, choose the family, and actively participate in the process.
• Semi-open adoption: Though the woman has contact with the adoptive family, all communication is handled by a third party, like an adoption agency or attorney.
• Closed adoption: This option is best for women who wish to remain anonymous and protect their personal details. All information is sealed, and no communication occurs with the adoptive family.

Women can choose the plan that corresponds with their comfort level and lifestyle. Moreover, various community resources are available to women who choose adoption. The Clinic’s nurses have a helpful network of adoption resources. We can also help you get connected with an adoption agency.

We’re Here for You

Heart to Heart PRC is here for you during an unexpected pregnancy. As a medical facility with nonjudgmental advocates and registered nurses on staff, we can provide the clinical services and help you need. All are welcome!
Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are also accepted when we have openings.