Let’s take a look at how the abortion pill works, the potential risks and side effects, and important steps you should take before seeking any abortion procedure.

How does the abortion pill work?

The abortion pill regimen typically involves two sets of drugs.  The first is a single pill – mifepristone. The first pill ends the pregnancy by blocking a hormone – progesterone – that the pregnancy needs to continue.  Progesterone nourishes a new pregnancy.

The second drug is taken as a set of pills – misoprostol – which causes bleeding and contractions to expel the contents of the pregnancy from the uterus.

If you are considering taking the abortion pill, it’s important to understand how the procedure works. Also, click here for various resources available to women like you who are researching abortion.

Can the abortion pill be taken at any time during pregnancy?

The abortion pill is currently FDA-approved for use up to 10 weeks gestational age (70 days).

If you are considering taking the abortion pill, it is important to confirm the gestational age and location of your pregnancy. For example, the risk of needing additional surgery after taking the abortion pill increases the further along the pregnancy is, or your pregnancy may be ectopic which is a life-threatening condition.

The gestational age and location of the pregnancy implantation can be determined by ultrasound. Contact Waterleaf Women’s Center for a free pregnancy test and ultrasound.

Is Taking the Abortion Pill Painful? 

Discomfort is expected from the abortion pill. The severity of discomfort can vary.

One study of teens and adults who took the abortion pill observed over 50% of the women “experienced severe pain.” Another study reported 38% experienced “severe pain.”

According to the Mayo Clinic, the abortion pill may also cause:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Chills
• Diarrhea
• Headache

Are There Risks Associated with the Abortion Pill?

Here is a list of potential risks listed by the Mayo Clinic: 

• Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
• Heavy and prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Fever
• Digestive system discomfort
• An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work

Additionally, the abortion pill should be avoided if you have any of the following pre-existing conditions which pose an additional risk:

• An intrauterine device (IUD)
• Allergies to the medications used in the abortion pill regimen
• Heart, blood vessel, liver, kidney, or lung diseases
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Use of blood thinners or steroid medications

Next Steps

Waterleaf Women’s Center offers no-cost ultrasounds, which provide crucial information about your pregnancy. 

Ultrasounds are helpful so you know how far along you are and alert you to any possible health complications, such as an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage. Both of these conditions would require medical attention other than an elective abortion.

If you’ve recently taken the abortion pill and changed your mind – contact a medical professional about Abortion Pill Reversal here.

Waterleaf provides a safe, confidential space for you to ask questions, learn about your options and local resources, and feel equipped to make the best decision for you. We are here to help you navigate your pregnancy journey. Call/Text Waterleaf confidentially at 630-360-2256 (CALM) today or contact us securely online. You are not alone!

Let’s look at how Plan B works, why spotting can happen after Plan B, what implantation bleeding is, other potential reasons for bleeding, and what steps to take next.

(Please note, no content of this article is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.)

How does Plan B work?

The exact mechanism of Plan B is unknown. According to the current label, Plan B usually works by stopping or delaying the release of an egg from the ovary (ovulation), which prevents fertilization.  Prior versions of the FDA label stated it was also possible that Plan B could prevent implantation after fertilization occurred.

Several studies have posited that Plan B may block implantation after fertilization by altering the uterine wall or by missing the implantation window by slowing the movement of the fertilized egg. Once implantation has occurred, Plan B cannot cause an abortion for an established pregnancy. 

Is spotting a side effect of Plan B?

Yes, spotting after Plan B can be a side effect. The Plan B FAQ says women who take Plan B may experience changes “such as spotting or bleeding before their next period.”

Spotting is when a woman experiences “small amounts of blood” separate from menstrual bleeding. Plan B contains the hormone levonorgestrel, which can affect your menstrual cycle.

In a study published in the journal Contraception, 14.7% of women experienced bleeding between periods after taking emergency contraception.

Can spotting after Plan B be a sign of pregnancy?

Yes, it is possible that spotting you may experience after Plan B is due to pregnancy. When an egg is fertilized, it travels to the uterus and attaches to the uterine lining. This is called implantation. Because the lining is filled with blood vessels, the attaching embryo can disrupt some of them and cause spotting, known as implantation bleeding.

Implantation bleeding is common. According to Cleveland Clinic, about 1 in 4 pregnant women experience implantation bleeding.

According to the Merck Manual, vaginal bleeding is common in early pregnancy and occurs in about 25% of confirmed pregnancies during the first trimester. According to a study published by Wolters Kluwer Health, 27% of women reported some bleeding or spotting in the first trimester.

The Cleveland Clinic says implantation bleeding is often pink, brown, or dark brown in color and may include mild cramps lighter than period cramps.

Can spotting indicate other conditions?

Yes. For example, spotting could also indicate something like an ectopic pregnancy, a serious condition in which the pregnancy has implanted outside the uterus. If you are experiencing abnormal spotting/bleeding, pain, or cramping, it is important to see a medical professional for a proper diagnosis, especially because an ectopic pregnancy is a medical emergency.

How can I tell if my spotting is due to Plan B, pregnancy, or something else?

If you are experiencing spotting or bleeding after taking Plan B and are not sure if it is a side effect or due to pregnancy, you don’t have to wonder alone.

Start with obtaining an ultrasound to confirm. At Waterleaf Women’s Center, our licensed medical professionals can provide you with a free ultrasound and no insurance is required.  Our team will listen to your questions and provide you with compassionate care without judgement.

Make an appointment today by calling or texting Waterleaf confidentially at 630-360-2256 (CALM).

Whether you are considering an abortion in Illinois for privacy reasons or because of the laws in your state, there are important factors to consider.

The first step when considering travel to Illinois for an Abortion – get an ultrasound

Before getting too far into the details of planning travel to Illinois for an abortion, it’s important to get information about your pregnancy first. No matter what decision you are considering, an ultrasound is a crucial step you should not skip.

Here’s what an ultrasound reveals and why it’s important for you to know before you schedule an abortion:

• The location of your pregnancy. If your pregnancy has implanted anywhere outside the uterus you could have an ectopic pregnancy. In this instance, you would be advised to seek immediate medical attention as this can be life threatening.
• The gestational age of your pregnancy. This is determined by measuring the dimensions of the pregnancy. If you were traveling to Illinois to pick up the abortion pill, it’s important to know the abortion pill can be dangerous to you if your pregnancy is farther along than you may think. The FDA approves of the abortion pill up to 70 days (10 weeks). Be warned that some abortion pill vendors claim the abortion pill is safe beyond the FDA’s 10-week approved range. Abortion pill risks such as uterine rupture increase the farther along you are in your pregnancy. Different abortion procedures are done at different gestational ages as well. The ultrasound provides you with an accurate gestational age so you can make the best decision for you.
• The viability of your pregnancy. If a heartbeat cannot be detected, or if the ultrasound does not show the findings that would be expected to be seen, it is recommend to follow-up with your physician. In some cases, a pregnancy that is not progressing as expected may end naturally without intervention. Appropriate follow-up care may also help avoid an unnecessary abortion procedure and protect your fertility for any future pregnancy.

At Waterleaf Women’s Center in Aurora, Illinois, our licensed medical professionals can provide you with a free ultrasound. No insurance is required.

What are the costs of traveling to Illinois for an abortion?

Traveling out of state for an abortion can be an emotionally taxing effort. It’s also important to consider the expense of travel and lodging. The costs can vary but you can expect to pay several hundred or even thousands of dollars depending on your travel distance, any hotel and food expenses, and the cost of the abortion procedure.

Additionally, you’ll want to consider the expense of the abortion. Recent statistics show that in Illinois out-of-pocket abortion pills can cost several hundred dollars, and a surgical abortion can cost over $2,000.

What Are the Risks of the Abortion Procedure?

Risks of a Surgical Abortion

According to the Mayo Clinic, the risks of surgical abortion include:

• Perforation of the uterus
• Damage to the cervix
• Scar tissue on the uterine wall
• Infection

Risks of the Abortion Pill

According to the FDA drug label, potential risks of medical abortion include:

• Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
• An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
• Heavy and prolonged bleeding
• Serious Infection
• Fever
• Digestive system discomfort

Consult a medical professional prior to any abortion to see if there are any “contraindications,” like anemia or other health conditions you may have that would make an abortion especially dangerous to you.

Take the first step

If you are considering traveling to Illinois for an abortion or to obtain abortion pills, your first step is to make your ultrasound appointment and confirm your pregnancy.

At Waterleaf Women’s Center, we can provide you with a free medical consultation and ultrasound whether you are an Illinois resident or from out-of-state. No insurance required. We provide a safe environment and compassionate care so you can gather more information and ask questions about the pregnancy process. Contact us today by calling or texting confidentially at 630-360-2256 (CALM).

Navigating this situation can be challenging. It’s okay to have concerns. This article will address some important steps you can take to help give direction and clarity to your health and situation.

Get Details About Your Pregnancy

For any pregnancy, no matter what situation you’re in, it’s very important to obtain an ultrasound to “see what’s going on.” The ultrasound is a vital step because it reveals information about:

• The location of your pregnancy. If your pregnancy has implanted anywhere outside the uterus, you could have an ectopic pregnancy. In this instance, you would be advised to seek immediate medical attention.  Ectopic pregnancies occur in about 2% of pregnancies and have been increasing in recent years, especially among young women.
• The gestational age of your pregnancy. This is determined by measuring the dimensions of your pregnancy.
• The viability of your pregnancy. If a heartbeat cannot be detected, it is possible you may miscarry naturally. In this case, you would be advised to follow up with your physician.

You can obtain a free ultrasound from pregnancy resource clinics like Waterleaf Women’s Center in Aurora. 

Are there any Resources that Can Help Me with My Plans?

You may have concerns about your pregnancy due to a lack of resources.  Sometimes it can help to consult your “inner circle,” including your parter if he remains involved, or family or friends. You might be surprised at how willing someone might be to step up and help.

There are also many community resources for pregnant woman, including food pantries, state departments for human services, county resource centers, crisis hotlines, churches, maternity housing, and more. The professionals at Waterleaf can provide you with a referral to the resources that best fit your situation.

If you have safety concerns, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE for help.

What’s My Next Step?

If your plans didn’t include pregnancy, your first step is to take a breath and make that ultrasound appointment.  Our medical professionals at Waterleaf can provide you with a free pregnancy test and ultrasound, and no insurance is required.  We are here to serve you with compassion, to listen to your situation and to hear your concerns.  Whether you are considering parenting, considering abortion, or are just unsure, we are here for you without judgement. 

Make a free appointment at Waterleaf today.  Call or text confidentially at 630-360-2256 (CALM).

(Please note, no content of this article is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.)

What happens in an Ectopic Pregnancy?

The word “ectopic” literally means out of place. An ectopic pregnancy occurs when the fertilized embryo implants somewhere other than inside your uterus. About 1 in 50 pregnancies are ectopic and the frequency of ectopic pregnancies has been increasing in recent years.

The most common type of ectopic pregnancy is called a tubal pregnancy, where the pregnancy implants inside the fallopian tube. The Mayo Clinic also notes other types of ectopic pregnancy which implant in other areas, such as the ovary, abdominal cavity, or the lower uterus.

Why is an Ectopic Pregnancy a Medical Emergency?

The normal location for a pregnancy is inside the walls of your uterus, which can accommodate a growing pregnancy. Because your pregnancy will grow in size, if your pregnancy is attached somewhere other than inside the uterus, like in a fallopian tube, there is a risk of rupture and internal bleeding.

If left untreated, an ectopic pregnancy can be serious or fatal.

Suspected ectopic pregnancies may be detected with an ultrasound. It’s important for any pregnancy that you have an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy location.

What causes ectopic pregnancy?

There is no single cause for an ectopic pregnancy. However, a study in the International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics identified several risk factors associated with ectopic pregnancy, including:

• Previous ectopic pregnancy
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Infertility
• Abdominal or pelvic surgeries
• Previous tubal ligation
• Advanced maternal age
• Smoking
• More than one sexual partner
• Previous use of emergency contraception
• Use of Intrauterine device (IUD)

What are signs and symptoms that my pregnancy is ectopic?

The American Pregnancy Association and the Cleveland Clinic list several potential symptoms of ectopic pregnancy. Immediately go to the nearest emergency room if you experience any of the following symptoms while pregnant:

• Intermittent or persistent sharp or stabbing pain (may be one-sided) in the pelvis, abdomen, or shoulder/neck area
• Weakness, dizziness, or fainting
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Bleeding less than or more than normal menstrual period

Why is an Ultrasound necessary for suspected ectopic pregnancies?

An ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of the inside of your body. It shows the location of the pregnancy.

If the pregnancy is visibly outside the uterus, further testing and evaluation by a physician will confirm an ectopic pregnancy and immediate treatment will be started.

Ectopic pregnancies are life-threatening if they grow large enough to rupture and damage internal organs.

Next steps

If you have an unexpected pregnancy, or are concerned your pregnancy may be ectopic, your first step is to obtain an ultrasound, which will include determining the location of your pregnancy. 

Here at Waterleaf Women’s Center, our licensed medical professionals can provide you with a free ultrasound. No insurance is required. 

Our team is here to provide you with compassionate care and answer any questions you may have about your pregnancy or life situation. Contact Waterleaf confidentially today by calling or texting 630-360-2256.

If your period is late or you have missed a period, it is important to first understand why your menstrual cycle has stopped. It may be a sign of pregnancy or other conditions needing medical attention.

What is in period pills?

Before you take any pill, it’s important to know what the pill is and what it may do to your body. Typically, what is called a “period pill” is the drug mifepristone, sometimes called the abortion pill.  As part of the regimen, a doctor might also prescribe misoprostol, which causes bleeding and contractions to empty the contents of your uterus.

What do period pills do?

When a woman is pregnant, her normal menstrual cycles stop. This is why a late period might be a sign of pregnancy. When you read about taking a “period pill,” it likely refers to taking the abortion pill regimen, which is intended to end a pregnancy and eventually help your body to return to your normal menstrual cycle.

What if I take period pills when I’m NOT pregnant?

If you are not pregnant, you would take unnecessary medical risk by taking the period pill. You could avoid the following side effects by avoiding the pill.

Medications have risks, adverse side effects, and contraindications. If you take “period pills” when you are not pregnant, you still may experience some of the side effects associated with the pills, such as “cramping and vaginal bleeding” or other common side effects like nausea, weakness, fever/chills vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and dizziness. You should also consult a medical professional about conditions that may conflict with the period pill, like anemia or other conditions.

If you have taken negative pregnancy tests but still have a period that is a week or more late, medical professionals recommend that you check with your doctor.

What if I take period pills when I AM pregnant?

Period pills are the same as the abortion pill, which is intended to end a pregnancy. This works by depriving the pregnancy of the hormone progesterone which the pregnancy needs to continue. Your provider may also prescribe misoprostol, which causes bleeding and contractions to expel the pregnancy.

Side effects of the period pill include the same as those mentioned earlier – nausea, weakness, fever/chills vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and dizziness. There are also conditions you may have that would conflict with the period pill, such as anemia or other health conditions. Consult a medical professional about any conditions you may have prior to obtaining the pill.

If you are pregnant, there are also risks such as excessive bleeding, an incomplete abortion (when there are still contents of the pregnancy in your uterus), and serious infection.

Do I need a pregnancy test and ultrasound first?

Some websites say you do not need to obtain a pregnancy test or ultrasound before you take the period pill. These websites say if you happen to be pregnant, period pills will end the pregnancy and bring your period back.

However, not obtaining a pregnancy test and ultrasound before taking the pill can be dangerous for several reasons.

• The FDA only approves the period pill (mifepristone) up to 10 weeks (or 70 days) of pregnancy. If you do not obtain an ultrasound to determine gestational age, taking the pill could be especially dangerous if you are farther along in your pregnancy than you thought.
• About 1 in every 50 pregnancies is ectopic – meaning the pregnancy has implanted outside the uterus. The FDA specifically says the period pill “will not be effective to terminate an ectopic pregnancy.” If you have a suspected ectopic pregnancy, you would be advised to seek immediate medical attention as it is a very serious and life-threatening condition. This is another reason why it is very important that you obtain an ultrasound before you take the pill.
• During an ultrasound, a medical professional will also check to see if a heartbeat can be detected. If you had a positive pregnancy test and no heartbeat is detected, it may indicate you could naturally miscarry. In this case, the recommendation is to follow up with your physician, and you would avoid taking any unnecessary period pills that could cause unwanted side effects.

What is my next step?

If you are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and are considering the period pill, you can make an appointment here at Waterleaf Women’s Center for a free pregnancy test and ultrasound. No insurance is required. Our medical professionals can answer your questions or address your concerns with compassionate non-judgmental care.

Call or text Waterleaf confidentially today at 630-360-2256.

It’s important that you take the time to address what concerns you have about your pregnancy or why you may feel you are not ready to be a parent.

Let’s review some of the concerns many women have, resources you may not know about, and next steps.

Why Am I Considering Abortion?

Studies show that approximately 93–95% of all abortions are chosen for “elective” or unspecified reasons. Elective abortion doesn’t include categories like abortion involving rape or incest or other health-related factors.

The top reasons women said they sought abortion were: feeling not ready, feeling unable to afford a child at the time, or not wanting more children.

Identify your Root Concern

Perhaps you feel that having a child would prevent you from accomplishing schooling, personal, or work goals. Many women who have been in your same situation were surprised to discover resources and assistance they previously didn’t know about.

For instance, pregnancy resource centers are a great place to start. Here at Waterleaf Women’s Center, we can provide you with a free consultation.  Our professionals specialize in providing education, answering questions, and connecting you with resources specific to your situation.

Some of the resources that you may qualify for include:

• financial aid
• food and baby supplies
• tuition assistance
• housing assistance
• emotional support
• and more

Many women have utilized resources like these, which addressed their root concerns.

Other women were surprised that having a child helped them in ways they did not anticipate. Women who were concerned about having more children have found another child was beneficial to their other children. In one study, 91% of women said having a child was much more fulfilling than they expected.

Having an abortion is associated with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and higher risk for PTSD. It’s important that you take the time to make an informed decision after receiving resources available to you.

What is My Next Step?

Take the time to identify your root concerns. What leads you to ask, “Is abortion the answer for me?”  It’s an important decision and you deserve to know all the medical facts about abortion and what resources are available to pregnant women just like you.

Schedule a free appointment at Waterleaf Women’s Center today, which includes a resource assessment. No insurance is required. Our medical team and resource professionals can answer your questions and provide you with compassionate care.  Call or text confidentially at 630-360-2256.

What is the abortion pill?

The abortion pill is a combination of two sets of pills to end an early pregnancy. The first pill is mifepristone, which ends your pregnancy by blocking the nourishment your pregnancy needs to continue. The second “pill” is a set of multiple pills, called misoprostol, which cause bleeding and contractions to expel your pregnancy.  The second set of pills is usually taken 24-48 hours after taking the first abortion pill.

What are risks of buying the abortion pill by mail?

One of the risks to be aware of is the possibility of scam websites claiming to sell the abortion pill.  Instead, they may sell lower dosage pills or counterfeits that could be dangerous to you.

The FDA warns: “FDA Does Not Recommend Buying Mifepristone Online” nor “personally transporting it from a foreign country.”The FDA cannot verify the “safety, effectiveness, and quality” of such drugs.

The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy reports “nearly 95% of websites offering prescription-only drugs online operate illegally.”They also cite the ASOP Global Foundation survey that 24% of Americans who have used an online pharmacy have been exposed to “harmful, counterfeit, or substandard medication.” Scam Adviser has identified multiple online abortion pill vendors who are selling the drug illegally.

The amount of time it takes to receive the abortion pill by mail can also increase your risks.  For example, one study reported that women received the abortion pill usually within 3 weeks, but in as many as 5 weeks. That means your pregnancy will have continued for 21-35 more days before you take the pill. This can be especially risky to you if your pregnancy is more developed than you thought. The FDA approves the abortion pill only up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Taking the abortion pill beyond the recommended timeframe could put your health at risk even more. The risk of needing additional surgery after taking the abortion pill increases the further along the pregnancy is.  

There are also risks whether you obtain the abortion pill by mail or through a local provider. The FDA identifies many side effects of the abortion pill such as nausea, weakness, fever/chills, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and dizziness.

More serious side effects of the abortion pill include serious infection or an incomplete abortion, meaning some of the contents of your pregnancy remain in your uterus. Studies have observed that  incomplete abortion can occur between 1.8 – 10% of the time. In these cases you would be advised to seek immediate medical attention and may require surgery.

Obtain an ultrasound before ordering the abortion pill by mail

Some abortion pill vendors will send the pills without the buyer having obtained an in-person medical visit. Obtaining a pregnancy screening and ultrasound is an important step whether you plan to take the abortion pill or not. Here’s why. The ultrasound reveals information about:

• The location of your pregnancy. If your pregnancy has implanted anywhere outside the uterus, you could have an ectopic pregnancy. In this instance, you would be advised to seek immediate medical attention. If you are considering taking the abortion pill, it could be especially dangerous if the pregnancy is ectopic. The FDA warns the abortion pill “will not be effective to terminate an ectopic pregnancy.”  Ectopic pregnancies occur in about 2% of pregnancies and have been increasing in recent years, especially among young women.
• The gestational age of your pregnancy. This is determined by measuring the dimensions of your pregnancy. The abortion pill is FDA approved only through 10 weeks of pregnancy.
• The viability of the pregnancy. If a heartbeat cannot be detected, it is possible you may naturally miscarry. In this case, you would be advised to follow up with your physician and avoid taking unnecessary abortion pills.

What is my next step?

Your first step before taking an abortion pill by mail is to make an appointment for an ultrasound. Here at Waterleaf Women’s Center, we offer pregnancy screening and ultrasound for free and no insurance is required.  Our medical professionals will answer your questions and provide you with non-judgmental compassionate care.  Your health and safety matters!  Call or text us confidentially at 630-360-2256 or contact us online.

(Please note, no content of this article is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.)

What is blood type related to Rh Factor?

The main blood type classifications are A, B, AB, and O.  Your blood also has an “Rh Factor” that is positive or negative, depending on whether certain proteins are in your blood. If the proteins are present on the red blood cells, your blood type is considered positive. If no protein is present, your blood type is negative.

Why should I know my blood type and Rh Factor before taking the abortion pill?

When the blood of an Rh-positive fetus mixes with the blood of an Rh-negative woman, her body will recognize that it does not belong and will create antibodies to fight it. This is called being Rh-sensitized. 

85% of people have a positive blood type. That leaves only 15% of the population having a negative blood type. The likelihood that a woman with a negative blood type might carry a child with a positive blood type are quite high.

If you are a woman with an Rh-negative blood type, you will need a special shot, called RHoGAM, any time there is a possibility that the fetus’s blood could mix with your blood, such as during:

• Miscarriage
• Ectopic pregnancy
• Abortion
• Prenatal tissue testing (e.g. Amniocentesis, Chorionic villus sampling)
• Abdominal trauma

RHoGAM works by stopping your body from creating antibodies against the fetus’s positive blood. Having this shot now is important for protecting future pregnancies.

Without RHoGAM, the antibodies created in your body stay in your bloodstream. These antibodies can harm future pregnancies by causing anemia in the baby. Severe anemia in a baby could result in disability or death.

Not knowing your blood type and taking the abortion pill could therefore jeopardize any future pregnancies you may have. Consult your doctor about getting tested for Rh Factor.

What should I do if I am Rh-negative and considering an abortion?

If you know you have Rh-negative blood, or you are unsure of your blood type, it is important to tell your healthcare provider before any abortion procedure or treatment so they can confirm your blood type and Rh Factor first. If you are Rh-negative, you may need an injection called RhoGAM. RhoGAM is given within 72 hours of a procedure to help prevent your immune system from developing antibodies which could affect a future pregnancy. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether RhoGAM is recommended based on your individual situation.

What should I do if I am Rh-negative and have already had an abortion?

If you are Rh-negative and have already had an abortion, Rh-sensitization may have already occurred. Contact the healthcare provider or facility where your abortion was performed to ask whether RhoGAM was administered. When recommended, RhoGAM is most effective if it is given within 72 hours of the abortion. If more than 72 hours have passed, you should contact your healthcare provider for guidance on next steps, especially before getting pregnant again.

Schedule a Pregnancy Test and Ultrasound

If you took a positive pregnancy test, we at Waterleaf Women’s Center can provide you with a free lab-quality pregnancy confirmation test as well as ultrasound, even if you are considering the abortion pill. An ultrasound provides crucial information about your pregnancy, such as the location, gestational age, and viability of your pregnancy. This information will help you make an informed decision.

Schedule a safe, confidential, judgment free appointment at Waterleaf today by calling/texting 630-360-2256 confidentially. No insurance is required. If you’ve taken the first abortion pill and changed your mind, learn more about the possibility of Abortion Pill Reversal here.

Reasons women don’t want a child with him

Studies have shown women have given several reasons for not wanting to have a child with a particular man, including:

• Relationship instability: You’re pregnant but your relationship with the man is not “good.” Or, you may consider the man unfit for fatherhood.
• Lack of support: The father does not support your pregnancy or you in general. This may also include his inability to provide financial support for a child.
• Abuse: Abuse from a partner can come in various forms, including verbal, emotional, coercive, or physical.

You may have these same concerns, and the stress of an unplanned pregnancy can intensify your concerns.

Steps to address not wanting a child with him

Depending on your specific situation – whether relationship instability, financial issues, or even whether you are married or pregnant with a partner – there are several things to consider.

First Step: Your first step for any pregnancy is to confirm your pregnancy with a pregnancy test and obtain an ultrasound. Pregnancy resource centers like Waterleaf Women’s Center can provide you with a medical-grade pregnancy test and an ultrasound for free and no insurance is required.  Even if you are considering abortion, the ultrasound is a critical step to determine gestational age, location, and viability – all of which can impact your health and decision.

Make sure to take time to decide: When you are experiencing a pregnancy with a partner you don’t want to have a child with, sometimes it can help to speak to someone professional. Identify what is the root cause of your concern about having a child with a particular man. Making an informed decision can give you peace of mind.

Stress can be alleviated when you find support and resources. For example, a parenting class could help you realize you are capable and more ready than you think. Various financial or housing resources could remove other burdens from your mind. 

Talk to a professional about what options are available.  At Waterleaf, we can help you organize your thoughts and refer you to resources which might be exactly what you need.

Co-Parenting with Boundaries: Many women who have partner concerns have provided for a child with various levels of involvement from their partner. If your partner is cooperative and you are agreeable, you may work something out with him.

In more difficult situations, counseling or legal aid for custody rights is available.

If you are concerned about an abusive relationship, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE for help.

Co-Parenting: So far, you’ve considered what resources could benefit you in the situation where you have reservations about having a child with the father. Perhaps consider whether he might benefit from resources. Is there some type of help or a skill that he could acquire that would change your mind about raising a child with him?

For example, would he stand to benefit from financial counseling? Parenting classes? Mental health support? Family support? It’s important to identify the root of your concerns and to look for a solution.

Contact Waterleaf for information about what resources are available for men.

Single Parenting: If you are single, there are multiple resources available to single mothers. One might be your family and friends who are willing to help. Extended family or friends may also be happy to help. If you can find trusted family or friends to help you provide for your child, this can significantly ease your situation.

There is also public or non-profit assistance for single mothers, including housing assistance, childcare funds, support groups and more.  If you need help connecting with the right resource for you, contact a local advisor like a pregnancy resource center.  Waterleaf can provide referrals and guidance for free.

Adoption: Many women have determined that they cannot parent with their partner and do not have the means to raise a child. Sometimes, women in this situation choose adoption to place their child into a loving family. Waterleaf can help you learn about adoption options and connect with adoption resources.

Next steps

These considerations can help you take a step back, slow down, and determine what is best for you and your child. Please remember, you never have to feel like you are alone.

If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and have concerns about raising a child with the father, contact the professionals at Waterleaf Women’s Center for a free appointment. No insurance is required. Our staff can provide you with a medical consultation, answer your questions, and provide you with referrals and information about resources available to you.  Call or text confidentially at 630-360-2256 (CALM).