Where to start for an ultrasound with no insurance?

One of the best resources to obtain an ultrasound if you don’t have insurance is your local pregnancy resource center. Be sure to visit their website or contact them first to confirm if they provide services with no insurance.

For example, here at Waterleaf Women’s Center in Aurora, we provide ultrasounds free with no insurance required. At your appointment, we will provide you with a medical-grade pregnancy confirmation followed by ultrasound. You’ll have the opportunity to ask our licensed medical professionals any questions that you may have.

Why is an ultrasound important?

An important step for any pregnancy is to obtain an ultrasound. An ultrasound provides several pieces of important medical information, including:

• 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.
• The gestational age is determined by measuring the dimensions of the pregnancy. This can help you with your health and planning. Even if you were considering something like the abortion pill, it is FDA-approved only through 10 weeks of pregnancy, so you will need to know the gestational age.
• The viability of your pregnancy. If a heartbeat cannot be detected, or if the ultrasound does not show the findings we would expect to see, we may recommend that you follow up with your physician. In some cases, a pregnancy that is not progressing as expected may end naturally without medical intervention.

What other resources can I get at a Pregnancy Resource Center?

For any specific pregnancy resource center, call or visit the center’s website to see what additional resources or services that particular center provides.

Here at Waterleaf Women’s Center, we also offer additional resources such as: options counseling, health care referrals, education, counseling, financial resource referrals, community resource referrals, and more!

I’m pregnant and I don’t have insurance, what’s my next step?

Consider an appointment at Waterleaf Women’s Center. All of our appointments are free and do not require insurance. All clients are treated with compassion and without judgement.  Our medical professionals and team are here to help you so you can make healthy, informed decisions.    Make an appointment today by calling or texting confidentially at 630-360-2256 (CALM). Walk-ins are also welcome during regular business hours. We are here for you!

Let’s take a look at when each pill is typically taken, how each pill works, and what its side effects include.

(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.)

PLAN B

What is Plan B?

Plan B, also known as the morning after pill, is a tablet to “help prevent pregnancy after birth control failure or unprotected sex.”

When is Plan B taken?

It is intended to be taken within 3 days or 72 hours after birth control failure or unprotected sex. It contains a “higher dose” of the hormone levonorgestrel, that is in in many birth control pills.

How does Plan B work?

According to the label, Plan B “usually” works by stopping or delaying the release of an egg from the ovary. Other methods by which Plan B may work are described in the FDA’s clinical trials. These include preventing sperm from reaching the egg or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.

What are Plan B side effects?

The Plan B label reports some women may experience changes in their period timing or severity. Common side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, tiredness, headache, dizziness, and breast tenderness. Severe abdominal pain could indicate “an ectopic pregnancy,” which would require immediate medical attention.

ABORTION PILL

What is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill, also known as a medication, chemical, or at-home abortion, is a combination of two sets of pills to end an early pregnancy.

When is the Abortion Pill taken?

The FDA approves the abortion pill up to 10 weeks (or 70 days) of pregnancy.

How does the Abortion Pill work?

The first abortion pill taken, mifepristone, ends the pregnancy by blocking the hormone progesterone that nourishes the pregnancy,  so it may continue. The second set of pills, misoprostol, is typically taken 24-48 hours later to cause contractions to expel the pregnancy.

What are abortion pill side effects?

The FDA abortion pill label says “cramping and vaginal bleeding are expected.” Common side effects also include nausea, weakness, fever/chills vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and dizziness. More serious side effects may include “prolonged heavy bleeding” or “serious bacterial infection” such as sepsis.

There are also health conditions, known as “contraindications,” that make taking the abortion pill especially dangerous. For example, this procedure is not advised for women who have anemia, bleeding disorders, liver or kidney disease, seizure disorder, acute inflammatory bowels, or use an IUD. Consult a medical professional for more information.

Are you concerned you may be unexpectedly pregnant?

If you think you might be pregnant or have questions about Plan B or the abortion pill, Waterleaf’s medical professionals are available to speak with you free and no insurance is required.

Our free medical consultations include a professional pregnancy test and ultrasound. Make an appointment today by calling or texting confidentially at 630-360-2256 (CALM).

If you’ve taken the first abortion pill and changed your mind, do not take the second pill. Contact an Abortion Pill Reversal resource immediately:

• Waterleaf: 630-360-2256 (CALM). Call or text confidentially.
  Call the Abortion Pill Rescue hotline: 877-558-0333 for a medical provider in your area.

With so many New Year’s “resolutions” emphasizing health, you might think to yourself: “Great idea! Where do I start?” It’s important for women of all ages to prioritize their health and well-being. Let’s look at what recent studies show about health and some simple ideas to maximize your wellness in 2026.

What are Some Health Tips for Women?

1. Prioritize Mental Health Through Mindfulness

Recent data paints a concerning picture of women’s mental health. A 2023 study found that self-confidence among girls at every grade level, even through high school, have fallen. About 40% of teens reported feeling depressed at least four days per week. 83% of high school seniors felt like they were going to “explode” under pressure.

To combat this trend, incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine:

• Practice breathing meditations which can reduce your “mental workload.”
• Keep a journal, which has been shown to help manage anxiety and reduce stress.
• Take advantage of sunny days – researchers have observed the improvement on mood that sunshine can provide.

2. Embrace a Balanced, Nutrient-Dense Diet

The topic of “processed foods” remains popular in 2025. With so many processed commercial food products, it can feel daunting to eat healthy. Here are several health tips for women regarding nutrition:

• Choose foods with minimal additives like artificial colors and flavors which are linked to many health problems.
• Cook more at home, which let’s you have more control of what’s in your food and portion sizes.
• Limit highly-processed foods which increase risk of chronic disease.

3. Remember to Walk

Daily walking has been observed to help prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease. Even short walks can help you physically and mentally. Here are some ideas on how to add more steps to your daily routine:

• Park farther from the store entrance
• Take stairs instead of the elevator
• Do one lap around the store before you start shopping
• Use your lunch break to walk
• Walk across the office instead of sending an email
• Vacuum
• Walk to nearby stores instead of driving

4. Cultivate Healthy Sleep Habits

A recent survey showed that women are almost twice as likely as men to report poor sleep. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends several tips for a better night’s sleep:

• Set a consistent sleep schedule
• Keep your bedroom cool, quiet, and relaxing
• Limit evening bright light and electronic device exposure
• Exercise and maintain a healthy diet
• Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol before bed
• If you don’t fall asleep within 20 minutes, do a quiet activity under low light

5. Stay Hydrated

The Mayo Clinic recommends women drink 11.5 cups (or 2.7 liters) of water per day. Here are a few tips to help cultivate hydrating habits:

• Set a timer throughout the day to take a drink
• Drink extra water after exercise or hot or dry days
• Include water-rich foods like salads, fruit, or applesauce in your day

Remember, these tips are just a starting point on your journey to better health. Every woman’s needs are unique, and it’s essential to listen to your body and consult with healthcare professionals when needed.

At Waterleaf, we are here for you.  Your health matters. If you have any questions about your body or situation, we are here to help. You can speak with our health professionals confidentially and without judgement.  Call or text confidentially today at 630-360-2256.

Let’s look at a Q&A of how common “reproductive coercion” is, what pressure looks like, and what steps to take next.

Am I the only one who feels pressured?

You are not alone. Partner pressure to abort is far more common than many women realize, but it’s often not talked about openly.

A 2023 peer-reviewed study of women with abortion histories, published in the medical journal Cureus, found that “61% reported high levels of pressure on at least one scale,” including pressure from partners, family members, finances, or other circumstances. Nearly one in four described their abortions as unwanted or coerced.

A separate prospective study published in General Hospital Psychiatry followed 80 women for two years after their abortions and concluded that “male pressure on women to have an induced abortion has a significant, negative influence” on their psychological responses in the years that follow.

What does reproductive coercion look like?

Reproductive coercion is when a partner uses pressure, manipulation, or control to influence your reproductive decisions. A 2024 peer-reviewed study published in PLOS One said reproductive coercion can include “threats, violence or coercion to force someone to terminate a pregnancy.” A separate study in the Journal of Family Violence found that women pressured to end a pregnancy were sometimes “threatened with repercussions such as physical violence, or with the loss of their relationship.”

In studies like these, women described patterns like:

• A partner who suddenly turns hostile, cold, or withdrawn after learning about the pregnancy
• A boyfriend who frames the pregnancy as something done to him; worried about how he’ll be judged by others, or about being tied down by the cost of a child
• A partner refusing to consider adoption, parenting, or even time to think; only abortion is on the table
• Pressure tied to the relationship; making clear he won’t be involved with a child, or that he may leave or stop speaking to her if she keeps the pregnancy

If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth taking time to process before making a decision you can’t undo.

Have you obtained an ultrasound?

An important step before making any decision is to obtain an ultrasound. An ultrasound provides several pieces of important medical information, including:

• 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. The FDA specifically says the abortion pill “will not be effective to terminate an ectopic pregnancy.”
• The gestational age is determined by measuring the dimensions of the pregnancy. 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. 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 we would expect to see, we recommend follow-up with your physician. In some cases, a pregnancy that is not progressing as expected may end naturally without medical intervention. Appropriate follow-up care may also help avoid an unnecessary abortion procedure.

Clinics like Waterleaf Women’s Center offer free medical-grade pregnancy testing and ultrasound.

I’m also experiencing partner violence – what do I do?

Sadly, reproductive coercion sometimes involves partner threats or violence. If your partner has harmed you or threatened to harm you, has tampered with your birth control or tried to slip you the abortion pill, seek help right away. Contact local police or a safety organization like the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.

If you have taken the abortion pill but still wish to continue your pregnancy, do not take the second set of pills and immediately contact an Abortion Pill Reversal resource immediately:

• Waterleaf: 630-360-2256. Call or text confidentially.
• Abortion Pill Rescue hotline: 877-558-0333 for a medical provider in your area.

Next steps

You deserve space to make a responsible and safe decision about your pregnancy. At Waterleaf Women’s Center, we can provide you with a free medical-grade pregnancy test and ultrasound free of charge; insurance is not required. Your appointment is confidential, and you are treated with compassion. We do not profit from any decision you make.

Our licensed medical professionals will take the time to understand your situation and answer any questions you may have. Call or text Waterleaf confidentially today at 630-360-2256 (CALM).

This article will review medically accurate information about different types of abortion procedures. (The contents below are not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Consult a medical professional about your specific condition.)

Different Types of Abortion: Surgical vs. Abortion Pill

The two main types of abortion are medical and surgical. Medical refers to the abortion pill, sometimes known as an at-home abortion.

Surgical Abortion

There are three types of Surgical abortions:

• Suction or Vacuum Aspiration: This procedure is performed on pregnancies that are approximately 5-12 weeks along. The pregnancy and placenta are removed using a suction tube.
• Dilation and Curettage (D&C): This is a surgical procedure often used for pregnancies in the late-first or early-second trimester (around 10 to 16 weeks). It involves dilation of the cervix and removal of pregnancy tissue from the uterus by scraping it away from the uterine wall. Suction may also be used to remove tissue.
• Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): This surgery is typically performed in the second trimester of pregnancy. It involves injecting the fetus to cause termination. Surgery to remove the pregnancy will take place 2-3 days later and may involve general or spinal anesthesia injection. The cervix is dilated, and the pregnancy is removed with forceps, a scraping tool, and/or vacuum suction.

Abortion Pill

The abortion pill is a regimen approved by the FDA through 10 weeks of pregnancy:

• Abortion Pill: The regimen involves taking two medications—mifepristone and misoprostol—to terminate a pregnancy. The process typically occurs over 24-72 hours. The patient will often administer the pills herself and expel the pregnancy in her home.
  
  The first pill terminates the pregnancy. The second set of pills induces contractions to expel the pregnancy.

What are the Risks of Abortion Procedures?

Any medical procedure has its risks. For example:

Risks of Surgical Abortion include:

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

Risks of Abortion Pill include:

• Incomplete abortion (requiring a follow-up procedure)
• Heavy and prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Fever
• Ongoing pregnancy if the procedure is unsuccessful

There are also many studies that show mental and psychological risks with either type of abortion.

• A study found that women who had undergone an abortion experienced an “81% increased risk of mental health problems,” including anxiety, substance abuse, and suicidal behaviors.
• Over 14% of American women met the full diagnosis for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) following their abortions.
• Women with an abortion have a 2-3 times higher suicide risk compared to non-pregnant women.

Why is an ultrasound important before any abortion or with any pregnancy?

The ultrasound is a crucial step and reveals information like:

• 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. The FDA specifically says the abortion pill “will not be effective to terminate an ectopic pregnancy.”
• The gestational age is determined by measuring the dimensions of the pregnancy. 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. 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 we would expect to see, we recommend follow-up with your physician. In some cases, a pregnancy that is not progressing as expected may end naturally without medical intervention. Appropriate follow-up care may also help avoid an unnecessary abortion procedure.

Schedule an appointment

If you have taken the abortion pill and changed your mind, it may not be too late.  Learn more about Abortion Pill Reversal or contact Waterleaf right away at 630-360-2256.

Before scheduling any abortion procedure, consider a confidential, in-person visit with our licensed medical professionals. At Waterleaf, we offer free pregnancy tests and ultrasounds to confirm your pregnancy so you can make informed decisions with confidence and clarity. No insurance is required.  Your health and safety is our priority!

Our compassionate staff is here to answer questions and provide medically accurate information as you navigate what’s next. You’re not alone. Contact us confidentially today online, by phone at 630-701-6270 or text at 630-360-2256.

An unexpected pregnancy can be overwhelming, especially if you are concerned about how to tell your parents about your pregnancy.

No matter how close you are to your parents, the thought of telling them can be scary. Before you do anything, stop and breathe. You will get through this!

Practical tips on telling your parents you are pregnant

Now that you’ve taken that breath, here are 5 practical tips on how to prepare to tell your parents you’re pregnant.

• Consider Journaling – Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be very helpful. Let your emotions flow. Whether it’s fear, excitement, or confusion, put it in writing. The American Psychological Association says, “expressive writing reduces intrusive and avoidant thoughts about negative events…” When you take thoughts outside of yourself and put them on the paper, this helps free your mind and can even better enable you to “cope more effectively with stress.” Related to journaling, some psychologists also support the concept of prayer which can help “focus our attention.” For example, an article at Psychology Today says prayer serves as “a coping mechanism to manage stress during difficult situations.”
• Obtain a Medical Pregnancy Confirmation & Ultrasound – It can give you peace of mind to obtain a medical-grade pregnancy test and an ultrasound from a medical professional. The pregnancy test and ultrasound can give you accurate information about how far along you are, and other health information that can prepare you with important facts when you discuss your pregnancy. Medical professionals at Waterleaf Women’s Center can provide you with a free pregnancy test and ultrasound. No insurance is required. Call or text Waterleaf confidentially at 630-360-2256.
• Rehearse the Conversation with a Trusted Friend or Mentor – Perhaps you are concerned about the unexpected when talking to your parents about your pregnancy. What might they say? Try having a discussion with a trusted friend, or a friend’s parents. This can help ease your uncertainty.  Some psychologists identify the benefit of a therapist or counselor because they are “a neutral party” who can help you rehearse.
• Think through Who, When, and Where? – There’s no “right or wrong” way to tell your parents you are pregnant. You could spontaneously do it right now. Or you could evaluate things like: Where should I tell them? Should I tell one parent separately or both together? Should I bring someone else with me like a friend, mentor, my partner, or a pastor? These variables can all depend on your level of comfort and your relationships.
• Be Ready to Let Your Parents Process – Remember, just as you had an initial reaction to your pregnancy, your parents might too. PsychCentral observes that parents’ “first reaction may not be what you (or your partner) really need to hear.” But it can be helpful to everyone to give them time to digest the news rather than react to it right away.

Where do I start?

Whatever your situation, the professionals at Waterleaf Women’s Center are here to help. We can provide you with information about your pregnancy, provide support and education, connect you with resources within the community, and help you plan out what the next few months will look like. You can come alone, with a partner or friend, or even your parents. We treat everyone with compassion and confidentiality.

Contact us today for a free consultation by calling or texting 630-360-2256.  We are here for you!

Read below for studies that have revealed the possible effects on mental health from the abortion pill, as well as physical effects.

What are the effects on mental health from the abortion pill?

Some evidence shows a higher risk of mental trauma associated with the abortion pill versus a surgical abortion. A study published in the Journal of Reproductive and Infant Psychology reported: “Compared to surgical abortion, medical abortion was associated with increasing the risk of developing a possible PTSD.”

There are also mental health risks with abortion generally. For example:

A study at SAGE Open Medicine examined pregnancy and mental health history. The study found that “abortion was consistently associated with increased risk of mental health disorder.”

Another researcher, publishing in SAGE and the British Medical Journal, observed ranges of 2x and 6x increased risk of suicide after abortion.

Before taking the abortion pill, it is also important to take note if you already struggle with mental health. A 2026 study in the Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & Gynecologyecology observed that “a history of mental health problems prior to the pregnancy” resulted in “higher rates of adverse emotional or mental health outcomes” after an abortion. That means if you already struggle with mental health issues, this can especially lead to traumatic mental stress after an abortion.Are there other risks associated with the abortion pill?

According to one study of women who took the abortion pill after 10 weeks gestational age, there were participants who reported incomplete abortion, excessive blood loss, and fever. Additionally, 10-15% of second trimester abortions are responsible for two-thirds of abortion-related complications.

Here is a list of potential risks listed by the Mayo Clinic for the abortion pill itself:

• Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
• Heavy and prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Fever
• Digestive system discomfort

Are there other risks associated with the abortion pill?

Side effects from the abortion pill can start soon after taking it and may include nausea, weakness, fever or chills, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and dizziness.

Bleeding is an “expected” symptom that occurs when the pregnancy detaches from the inside of your uterine wall. However, the FDA label warns that “prolonged heavy bleeding may be a sign of incomplete abortion.” An incomplete abortion could require surgery.

The FDA also warns of potential serious bacterial infections or sepsis, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. Long-lasting fever, severe abdominal pain, or prolonged heavy bleeding could be a sign of infection that requires immediate emergency care.

The FDA says:

Bleeding or spotting can be expected for an average of 9 to16 days and may last for up to 30 days. Your bleeding may be similar to, or greater than, a normal heavy period. You may see blood clots and tissue. This is an expected part of passing the pregnancy.

The FDA label for misoprostol also refers to risks like uterine rupture, stating: “The risk of uterine rupture increases with advancing gestational ages…” Risk of rupture is also increased with prior uterine surgery or c-section.

What are my other options?

If you are considering the abortion pill or just want to talk to a medical professional, Waterleaf Women’s Center professionals are here for you at no cost. Schedule a confidential consultation, which includes a medical-grade pregnancy test and ultrasound.

As you consider the abortion pill, information from an ultrasound can be especially helpful. Ultrasounds provide information such as how far along you are, if your pregnancy is progressing, and where your pregnancy is located.

If you are pregnant, an ultrasound provides especially important information, such as the gestational age of your pregnancy, so you can make informed decisions best for you. Schedule an appointment or call/text Waterleaf confidentially at 630-360-2256 today.

Many drug labels warn patients of certain conditions that make the drug especially risky for a person with those conditions.  These warnings may be labeled on the drug packaging as “contraindications.” Let’s examine the warnings from the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) about the abortion pill and why it’s dangerous to take the abortion pill with blood thinners.

(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.)

The FDA warns against taking the abortion pill with blood thinners

The abortion pill is also known as mifepristone. The FDA’s Q&A on the abortion pill states:

“An individual should not take mifepristone…if they…have bleeding problems or are taking anticoagulant (blood thinning) drug products.”

Why is it dangerous to take the abortion pill with blood thinners?

To understand why it is dangerous for you to take the abortion pill with blood thinners, it’s important to know what happens in your body when you take the abortion pill.

In a normal pregnancy, the tissue from your pregnancy attaches to the lining of your uterus. The abortion pill causes your pregnancy to end. “This leads to detachment” of the pregnancy from your uterus, which can cause bleeding.

Blood thinners “keep blood clots from forming,” which means it will be difficult for your body to stop bleeding – this makes you prone to experience complications and excessive bleeding. Should this occur, seek immediate medical care at an emergency room.   

Have you obtained an ultrasound?

An important step for any pregnancy is to obtain an ultrasound. The ultrasound is also a crucial step if you are considering the abortion pill because it can provide information, including:

• The location of the 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. 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. This is determined by measuring the dimensions of the 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 abortion pills.

Waterleaf Women’s Center can provide you with a pregnancy test and ultrasound, all free of charge. Our licensed medical professionals will provide you with compassionate care without judgement.

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

Let’s examine resources that are available to pregnant women and help you find the clarity and resources that can help you in your journey.

Do I know what pregnancy resources are available?

Perhaps you are considering abortion because you don’t believe you have the means to be a parent. Or perhaps you believe carrying the pregnancy would prevent your other goals. However, it’s important to recognize what resources are available to you.

Start with those close to you. If your relationship with your partner is still ongoing, he may be able to provide support in ways you may not expect, from financial to emotional support.

You can also turn to your “inner circle.” Start with family and friends who might step up in surprising ways, such as agreeing to babysit, meal prepping, or just listening when you need it.

What pregnancy resources are there in the community?

Additional support resources are in the community. Look for public and nonprofit organizations specializing in your specific needs. Examples include:

• Pregnancy Resource Centers
• Local food pantries
• State Departments of Human Services
• Information Referral Resources & Services
• County Resource Centers
• Crisis Hotlines
• Church donation centers
• Public Financial Aid Programs
• If you are concerned about an abusive relationship, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE for help.

What is my next step if I need help finding resources?

You might want to reach out to your local Pregnancy Resource Center if you are not sure where to start.

Here at Waterleaf Women’s Center, we have professionals who can confidentially discuss your specific situation and help you connect with the right resources. Every client is treated with compassion, without judgment, and all of our services are free. We can also provide you with the important step of getting a medical-grade pregnancy test and ultrasound, which is important no matter what decision you are planning.

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

You may be facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering abortion. You may be considering an in-clinic abortion or the at-home abortion pill. And you may wonder, “What steps do I need to take before an abortion?”

Knowing more about abortion, what to do first, how to find resources, understanding your situation, and more, can help you make the best decision. Let’s examine things you should consider before scheduling an abortion.

Have I confirmed pregnancy?

After seeing a positive at-home pregnancy test, you would be advised to receive professional confirmation before proceeding with scheduling an abortion or ordering the abortion pill. A lab-quality test administered by a medical professional can give you peace of mind. Here at Waterleaf, we can provide you with a medical-grade pregnancy test at no cost.

Have I had an ultrasound before an abortion?

An ultrasound is a crucial step for any pregnant woman, for any decision she is considering. 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 that may require surgery other than abortion. If you are considering the abortion pill, the FDA specifically says the abortion pill “will not be effective to terminate an ectopic pregnancy.”
• The gestational age of your pregnancy is determined by measuring the dimensions of the pregnancy. Different types of abortion procedures vary based on the gestational age of your pregnancy. If you are considering the abortion pill, it 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). Abortion pill risks such as uterine rupture increase the farther along you are in your pregnancy. 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, it is possible you may naturally miscarry. In this case, you would be advised to follow up with your physician, and you would avoid an unnecessary abortion procedure.

Knowing this information from the ultrasound is very important for your health and situation, whether or not you are considering abortion. Waterleaf can provide you with free medical-grade pregnancy testing and an ultrasound.

Do I know the health impact of abortion?

If abortion is an option you’re exploring, it’s critical to understand the physical and mental health risks. The two methods of abortion are surgical and the abortion pill (also known as medication abortion), each with potential complications.

• Physical Risks: Surgical abortion risks include infection, heavy bleeding, uterine damage and more. Medication abortion risks include severe cramping, bleeding, infections, or incomplete abortion. Taking abortion pills at home may seem like a private and safe matter, but a procedure done outside the presence of a doctor has risks. You may require immediate medical care for excess bleeding or surgery due to an incomplete abortion. The FDA also warns against buying abortion pills online, because unregulated sources may send unsafe or ineffective drugs.
• Mental Health Risks: Some women experience emotional challenges after having an abortion, such as sadness, guilt, anxiety, or even PTSD. You may find it helpful to discuss your situation and feelings with a professional before making a serious decision like abortion. Waterleaf Women’s Center can offer you a free pregnancy consultation with no insurance required to walk you through your feelings and what is involved in the abortion process.

Am I being pressured to abort?

It’s important to make an informed decision without being coerced. Sadly, it is not uncommon for a woman to feel pressured into having an abortion.  One study reported up to 64% of American women who had abortions described being pressured to have an abortion.

A woman may feel pressure to abort from various directions, including from their partners, their family, or their peers. One study asked men to self-report coercing their partner into abortion. Up to 7.3% of men admitted to pressuring their partners into abortion, which accounts for tens of thousands of abortions per year.

If you are in a situation where you feel threatened or in danger, you can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE for help.

What do I know about the abortion provider?

Whether you are considering an abortion in-clinic or at-home abortion pills, it’s important to know about your provider. 

Has your provider advised you on what to do if you have complications? Do you know the provider’s safety record? Does your provider have hospital admitting privileges at a hospital near you? Have you ordered the abortion pill from a reliable source? Has your provider screened your blood’s Rh factor or performed an ultrasound to look for possible ectopic pregnancy?

If you are not sure what to ask, you may consider this article: What questions should I ask the abortion pill provider?

Take the first step

It’s important before making a serious decision like abortion to know the health impact, that your decision isn’t made under pressure, and that you’ve explored all your options and resources. You deserve to know the truth to make an informed decision with confidence.

Schedule a free and confidential pregnancy test and ultrasound appointment today. It’s okay to come in unsure. The Waterleaf medical staff and team are here to talk with you about all your options and give you the clarity you need. Call or text us confidentially today at 630-360-2256.