Frequently Asked Questions
Q.
How safe is abortion?
A.
The National Abortion Federation (NAF) notes that nearly half of women
under 45 in the United States have had an abortion at some time in their
lives. A first-trimester abortion in a reputable clinic using local
anesthesia is the safest and most commonly performed outpatient surgery
in the United States today.
Complication rates are low. In fact, complications from a first trimester
abortion are considerably less frequent and less serious than those
associated with giving birth. Some possible complications include incomplete
abortion, infection, laceration of the cervix, heavy bleeding, resuction,
uterine perforation, allergic reaction to a medication (including shock
or cardiac arrest). According to NAF statistics, 97% of women having
abortions in the first trimester of pregnancy report no complications;
2.5% have minor complications that can be handled at the medical office
or abortion facility; and less than 0.5% have more serious complications
that require some additional surgical procedure and/or hospitalization.
Anti-abortion activists claim that having an abortion increases the
risk of developing breast cancer and endangers future childbearing.
However, these claims have been refuted by medical research. In February
2003, a panel of experts convened by the National Cancer Institute concluded
that studies have clearly shown that "induced abortion is not associated
with an increase in breast cancer risk." Furthermore, medical data
show that a first trimester abortion poses virtually no risk to future
ability to conceive or bear a child.
For more detailed information, visit the
National
Abortion Federation Web site or call their hotline at 1-800-223-0618.
Q.
What are the emotional risks of having an abortion?
A.
Objective evidence and our own experience shows that
women most commonly report a sense of relief after an abortion. Women's Health offers post-abortion counseling
at no charge, but few women request it. Women’s Health affirms
women as competent ethical decision-makers, able to assess their situation,
their readiness for parenting, their own well-being and that of their
families. Women who have reached a carefully thought-out decision are
less likely to experience doubt or regret later on.
Q.
Will you tell my parents?
A.
Colorado law requires that any minor under 18 years old notify her
parents or other legal guardian of her intent to have an abortion.
Click here for
more information.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE HELP TALKING WITH YOUR PARENTS, TRAINED COUNSELORS
ARE AVAILABLE FOR YOU. A COUNSELOR CAN MEET WITH YOU ALONE TO SUGGEST
STRATEGIES FOR YOU TO USE, OR CAN MEET WITH YOU AND YOUR PARENT(S).
Q.
How painful is a surgical abortion?
A.
Cramping during the procedure should be expected and varies from mild
to heavy, with moderate cramping even when you go home. Pain medications
are offered prior to the abortion procedure to all patients. Anyone
who does not have a ride home or has a medical reason that makes them
unable to have stronger medications, will be offered prescription
strength Ibuprofen. Oral
pre-medications are provided at no additional charge, and may include a prescription-strength medication for cramping (Vicodin), as well as an optional relaxant (Lorazepam). If oral medications are chosen, the patient may eat lightly and drink liquids prior to her appointment.
IV conscious sedation, which provides a higher level of pain relief,
is available at an additional $50 charge. This is a combination of Fentanyl
and Versed. If IV sedation is chosen, the patient may not eat anything
for five hours prior to her appointment, but is encouraged to stay hydrated
by drinking (only clear liquids) up until one hour prior to her appointment.
Patients will be given a written prescription for pain medicine that
can be filled at a pharmacy if needed. Ibuprofen is also recommended.
Q.
What is the difference between medication abortion (the Abortion Pill) vs. surgical abortion?
A.
See a chart comparing the two procedures, in English or en Espaņol.
Q.
How much bleeding can I expect after taking the medication abortion pill (Mifeprex)?
A.
You can expect to experience heavy cramping and bleeding for about 3-5 hours after inserting the second medication, during which time you will pass the pregnancy. Heavy bleeding may last up to 24 hours. It can be normal to have irregular bleeding and spotting for 1-4 weeks after the abortion.
Q.
How long will it take me to recover from a surgical abortion?
A.
You should plan on three weeks of healing. During this time, you need
to get plenty of rest, eat nutritious foods and avoid strenuous activity.
Do not engage in intercourse or place any object - including a tampon
- in your vagina. Do not take tub baths or get in a hot tub. Showers
are fine.
Q.
Who can I talk to about what I'm going through?
A.
The counseling staff at Women’s Health is professionally-trained.
Call if you would like to schedule an appointment. It can be helpful
to speak with an experienced listener who is non-judgmental and supportive.
There is no charge for this appointment. You can call Women’s
Health at any time -- even years later -- for support and understanding.