Unplanned pregnancy options. Search.
You never thought you’d be Googling options for an unintended pregnancy, but that positive test has changed everything. What are you supposed to do now?
If you are unexpectedly pregnant, you have several choices. Read on to learn more about these options and determine which is right for you.
Unplanned pregnancy: What are my pregnancy options?
Abortion
If you are unexpectedly pregnant, abortion is one of your options. In the state of Florida, you can get an abortion until the 15th week of pregnancy.
Several abortion procedures are available to you.
The abortion pill
The abortion pill is also called a chemical or medication abortion. You may also see it referred to as a self-managed abortion.
For this procedure, you will take two medications called mifepristone and misoprostol. The abortion pill lowers progesterone which blocks oxygen and nutrients from the embryo to end the pregnancy.. It also induces powerful cramps to push the embryo and tissue out of your uterus.
The abortion pill is only approved for use through the 10th week of pregnancy. Its risks include:
- Hemorrhage
- Infection
- Incomplete abortion
The abortion pill will NOT work on an ectopic pregnancy.
Aspiration dilation and curettage (D&C)
This abortion method is also called a suction D&C.
During the procedure, the abortionist will insert a suction catheter, or a tube attached to a vacuum, into your uterus. The powerful suction will break apart the embryo and tissue to remove them from the uterus.
The abortionist may also use a tool called a curette to scrape the walls of the uterus and remove any leftover tissue.
Aspiration D&C procedures are performed between the 5th and 13th weeks of pregnancy. Risks include:
- Hemorrhage
- Infection
- Uterine or cervical injuries
- Incomplete abortion.
Dilation and evacuation (D&E)
Before a D&E abortion, the abortionist will dilate your cervix with a series of dilating rods and/or laminaria. Once your cervix has opened enough, the abortionist will remove pieces of the embryo and tissue with a grasping tool called a Sopher clamp.
The physician may also scrape your uterus with a curette to check for leftover tissue.
D&E abortions are typically used after the 13th week of pregnancy. Risks include:
- Punctures to the bowel, bladder, rectum, and reproductive organs
- Cervical damage
- Hemorrhage
- Infection
- Future pregnancy problems
- Incomplete abortion
What are my next steps?
Before getting an abortion, you should visit a pregnancy clinic to confirm your pregnancy and learn how far along you are. At Thrive Orlando, we offer ultrasounds to measure your pregnancy, determine viability, and check for life-threatening problems such as ectopic pregnancy.
You will also get STD testing to prevent abortion complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease.
We will offer information about how much you can expect to pay for an abortion as well. Abortion costs in Florida depend on several factors. Where you go, how far along you are, and which procedure you need will all affect the cost of your abortion.
A patient advocate will provide more information about abortion during your appointment.
Adoption
Adoption is another surprise pregnancy option.
During your pregnancy, you can choose the adoption agency you want to work with. You can also pick the family that will adopt your child. Adoptive families can be someone you know or someone you meet through the agency.
You will have full control over the process so you can choose the type of adoption that best fits your needs. Some women choose to be involved in the child’s life (open adoption), others want to keep their information private from the family and child (closed adoption), or something in between.
You can pick adoption at any point during your pregnancy. You can also change your mind and decide to parent until the adoption is finalized.
Additionally, most birthmothers qualify for financial assistance to cover their medical and living expenses during pregnancy and immediately after.
We will provide more information about adoption, including adoption agency referrals, during your appointment.
Parenting
Some women with unplanned pregnancies choose to birth and parent their babies. You can decide to parent at any time during your pregnancy, even after making an adoption plan.
Several local organizations offer resources for single moms, new parents, and low-income families. You may qualify for Medicaid if you don’t have medical insurance as well.
Along with our medical pregnancy services, you may qualify for our Aspire Parenting Program. You will join free parenting classes, partner with a mentor, and earn no-cost baby supplies to stock your nursery.
Your patient advocate will provide more information about parenting while you’re at our clinic.
What if I don’t want to be pregnant?
It’s okay to be upset about your unintended pregnancy. Getting pregnant does change your plans.
But it doesn’t mean the end of your dreams.
You are strong, capable, and brave. You can make the choice you want, no matter what anyone else says.
Visit Thrive Orlando to confirm your pregnancy and get the information you need. An informed decision is one you won’t regret. Book your appointment today.
