Abortion FAQs
1. Is abortion safe?
Yes. Abortion is very safe. In fact, abortion is one of the safest and most common surgical procedures in the United States. One in four Americans will have an abortion by the time they are 45 years old (http://www.guttmacher.org) and 60% are already parents at the time of their abortion. And, although every procedure carries some risk, abortion is safer than carrying a pregnancy to term and delivering vaginally. Less than 0.3% of abortion patients experience a complication (https://www.guttmacher.org/fact-sheet/induced-abortion-united-states). Northland Family Planning provides the best medical and abortion care.
2. Does an abortion hurt? Is abortion painful? What can I use to manage pain?
Most people ask us if the procedure will hurt or cause discomfort. We describe the discomfort as being like menstrual cramps or having your period. But, each person experiences and tolerates pain in different ways. So, for some people, it will be more uncomfortable than others. That is why here at Northland, we have created a calm and relaxing environment to make you as comfortable as possible. We offer several options to help you manage pain. One of our services allows for you to have a friend or companion with you throughout much of your visit. Many patients like this because it helps them relax. Please discuss your pain concerns with us and we will help you choose the best option for you. A note about anesthesia: Many people wish to explore other pain options including pain medications. It is important to understand all your options because there is a lot of misleading information out there, especially regarding abortion anesthesia.
3. What is the abortion pill? How does the abortion pill work?
The Abortion Pill (RU-486 or medication abortion) is a safe way to end a pregnancy in the earliest stages without procedure. Many people choose this method because it feels more natural and they like the comfort of being at home, having a friend or family member with them. This method does not require a procedure or anesthesia and some feel they have more control over the process, because they can plan the process around their demanding schedule. While the Abortion Pill method is a private experience, it is not one to go through alone.
4. Which is better the abortion pill or the surgical abortion method?
Both the abortion pill method and the surgical abortion method are fine, safe options. What may be best for some may not be best for others. That is why we encourage you to review the information about both types and decide for yourself which is best for YOU. Some patients prefer the convenience of the surgical abortion because everything is done in 1-day and when they leave our office, they know their abortion process is complete. Some prefer completing the abortion process in the comfort of their own home and setting the timing of their abortion around their work schedule or their childcare schedule.
5. How long will the procedure take and how long will I be at the clinic?
Surgical abortion usually takes a few minutes, but if you are being cared for in a health center that provides high quality care, you can expect to be at the clinic for several hours. We strongly believe that abortion care cannot be done on a lunch hour (believe it or not, people have asked!). There is a big difference between cheap abortion providers and high-quality abortion providers, who take the time to provide you with pre-procedure counseling, take a full medical history and complete all necessary lab work.
6. What is the earliest I can get an abortion? Can I have an abortion at 6 weeks pregnant?
Northland Family Planning Centers offer abortion care beginning at 4 weeks into the pregnancy. With early pregnancy tests, it is possible to find out that you are pregnant within a few days of conception, giving you time to think about your options, have conversations with yourself and with the people who are important to you, and then make the decision that is best for you.
Depending on the stage of your pregnancy, you have several options:
If you are early in your pregnancy (11 weeks pregnant or less), you can choose to have a Medication Abortion (the abortion pill). If you require a first trimester abortion you can have an early surgical abortion or abortion using Manual Vacuum Aspiration (MVA).
Abortion procedure is considered one of the safest out-patient surgical procedures when performed by trained physicians. Our team of male and female licensed OB/GYNS come to us with the most exceptional skills and standards. All abortion procedures are performed in our clean, private surgical rooms and each patient is attended to by one of our caring health professionals.
If you are beyond 14 weeks of pregnancy, and into your second trimester of pregnancy, you will need to schedule a surgical second trimester abortion called a D&E. This procedure consists of dilating your cervix & removing the pregnancy. During your time with us, you will get to know our whole, caring team. From speaking privately with a reproductive health counselor to seeing our gentle doctors, we are here for you every step of the way.
7. Can I get a free abortion?
The State of Michigan does not allow Medicaid to cover the cost of abortion, so having an abortion at no charge is not possible. We have financial assistance available for low income patients. Northland staff members are exceptional at helping patients in need obtain funding and assistance. We are not set up to do payment plans, but we have dedicated funding advocates for patients.
8. I’m looking for a cheap abortion. What is the best way to decide if a cheap abortion is the right choice?
Northland Family Planning Centers are inspected and certified by the National Abortion Federation. We know that we are not the cheapest because we are choosing to provide top-notch health care.
9. I’m having a hard time deciding if abortion is right for me. Do you have something to help me decide?
You are not alone. Choosing an abortion can be a tremendously difficult choice. We know that and we can help. Deciding on whether or not to become a parent at this time in your life, requires you taking time to identify and sort out your feelings about this pregnancy. You may feel as if your entire past, present and future are up for examination. As a result, feelings about abortion may also have a great deal to do with other issues in your life that have not been addressed, such as the relationship with the partner involved, or whether or not you are able to afford another child.
The abortion decision section of our website has many tools that can help you decide. You are also welcome to come in and talk with one of our family planning specialists about your options. Pregnancy options consultation is a free service that we offer.
10. If I am under 18 years of age can I get an abortion?
Yes. However, there are teenage abortion laws that must be followed. Michigan state law says that you must have the consent of at least one parent or guardian, or obtain a judicial bypass. We can help you with either. Most states have some sort of law regarding teens and abortion. Don’t be afraid or discouraged ……..ask and we can help you with this process. We have free attorneys and other resources available to assist you with this law.
11. Is there a waiting period to have an abortion? What do I need to do?
Yes, there is a Michigan abortion wait time of 24-hours, as well as a couple of other requirements. Please call us and we will explain what you must do. If you get your information from the internet – the State of Michigan website – you must print the form at least 24 hours before you come in. We are not allowed, by Michigan law, to perform an abortion without this. See Michigan’s 24-Hour Waiting Period Law for further information.