An unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming. If you’re looking for an abortion clinic in Wichita, Kansas, it’s important to know what to expect. This can help you make a fully informed decision.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- The different types of in-clinic abortion procedures
- The possible risks and side effects
- When to seek medical help if you experience complications
- What to do before visiting an abortion clinic
Types of In-Clinic Abortion Procedures
The type of surgical abortion you can receive depends on how far along your pregnancy is. The abortion provider will recommend either a suction (vacuum) aspiration or a dilation and evacuation (D&E).
Suction (Vacuum) Aspiration Abortion
A suction (vacuum) aspiration abortion is typically performed up to 13 weeks of pregnancy in Kansas. Here’s how it works:
- Before the procedure, an exam is performed including an ultrasound.
- Local anesthetics is given and small instruments called dilating rods are used to open (dilate) the cervix
- Additional medications may be used to soften the cervix, such as misoprostol or general anesthesia.
- Then a plastic tube known as the suction device, is inserted into the uterus. The suction pulls the fetus apart and out of the uterus.
- Finally, a sharp loop-shaped metal tool called a curette may be used to scrape any remaining fetal parts.
Dilation and Evacuation Abortion (D&E)
A dilation and evacuation (D&E) is a surgical abortion most often performed in the second trimester. This procedure is usually performed under anesthesia. It’s more complex than a suction (vacuum) aspiration abortion due to the fetus’s size.
Here’s how it works:
- 24-48 hours before the procedure, sponge-like sticks (laminaria) are inserted into the cervix.
- These sticks absorb moisture and gradually expand, opening (dilating) the cervix.
- Further dilation may be needed, including anesthesia, metal dilators, and a speculum.
- During the procedure, they begin by inserting a suction device into the uterus and emptying the amniotic fluid.
How Much Does an In-Clinic Abortion Cost?
The average cost of an in-clinic abortion depends on how far along you are. Here are the national averages[1]:
- First Trimester (up to 13 weeks of pregnancy): Prices range from $600 to $979.
- Second Trimester (13 to 24 weeks of pregnancy): Early in the second trimester, the average cost is $715. Later in the second trimester, the cost can range from $1,500-2,000.
These prices do not include the cost of any pre-screening services (such as an ultrasound) or follow-up care.
Side Effects and Risks
Common side effects of surgical abortion include cramping, spotting, and bleeding. These can last up to two weeks, depending on the procedure. One study found that second-trimester abortions can be more painful than expected.[2]
Potential physical risks include:
- Uterine Perforation: An instrument may accidentally puncture the uterus, possibly needing surgical repair.[3]
- Asherman Syndrome: Scar tissue inside the uterus from repeated procedures can impact future fertility.[4]
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Bacteria introduced during surgery may cause infection in the reproductive tract.[5]
Additionally, some women report experiencing mental health struggles after abortion. Examples include:[6][7]
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Low self-esteem
- Substance abuse
- Suicidal behaviors
If you’re thinking about suicide, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Care
Complications can happen after an in-clinic abortion. Go to the nearest emergency room if you experience any of the following:
- Heavy, excessive bleeding
- Persistent fever
- Severe or worsening abdominal pain not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- No bleeding within 24 hours of the procedure
What to Do Before Visiting an Abortion Clinic
Before visiting an abortion clinic, it’s highly recommended to receive an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy viability and gestational age. This information is crucial for your health and allows you to know your options for an informed decision.
Viability
A viable pregnancy indicates that the pregnancy is progressing normally and has the potential to continue to term. Just 22 days after fertilization, the heart begins to beat. During an ultrasound, technicians look for location, gestational age, and fetal heartbeat. Each of these can begin to be detected between 6.5 and 7 weeks of pregnancy.[8]
Determining location with an ultrasound before having an abortion checks for nonviable pregnancies. This includes miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies, where the embryo grows outside the uterus. These conditions need alternative medical care.
Gestational Age
Gestational age refers to how far along you are in your pregnancy. Doctors measure it from the first day of your last period.
Knowing your gestational age is crucial for determining which abortion you are eligible for and understanding the risks the further along you are.
A Better Choice provides free ultrasounds to women who receive positive pregnancy tests at our center. Click the button below to schedule your pregnancy test appointment.
*Important note: Please be aware that this article is not meant to substitute for medical advice or treatment. The purpose of our limited ultrasound exams is to identify a pregnancy inside the uterus, detect the fetal heartbeat, and estimate how far along you are. If there is no detectable heartbeat, it may indicate a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy is occurring. If we cannot detect a fetal heartbeat during your appointment, we will provide appropriate referrals for follow-up care and treatment.
Considering an In-Clinic Abortion in Wichita, Kansas? Visit A Better Choice First.
If you’re considering an in-clinic abortion in Wichita, Kansas, A Better Choice is here to help you make an informed decision. We offer:
- Free Services: Pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, consultations, referrals, and resources.
- Compassionate Support: A safe space to ask questions and explore your options without pressure.
- Personalized Guidance: We are here to walk with you, answer your questions and provide all the facts to help you be informed as you explore each of your pregnancy options.
Give us a call at (316) 685-5757 or schedule your appointment online today.
Please be aware that A Better Choice does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
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- As advertised by abortion providers.
- Dzuba, I. G., Chandrasekaran, S., Fix, L., Blanchard, K., & King, E. (2022, May 12). Pain, Side Effects, and Abortion Experience Among People Seeking Abortion Care in the Second Trimester. Women’s Health Reports (New Rochelle, N.Y.). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9148646/
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2024, April 5). Abortion – Surgical. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002912.htm
- Mayo Clinic. (2024, July 6). Elective Abortion: Does it Affect Subsequent Pregnancies? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/expert-answers/abortion/faq-20058551
- Mayo Clinic. (2022, April 30). Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594
- Fergusson, D. M., Horwood, L. J., & Ridder, E. M. (2005, September 22). Abortion in young women and subsequent mental health. Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health. https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1469-7610.2005.01538.x
- Coleman, PK. Abortion and mental health: quantitative synthesis and analysis of research published 1995–2009. British Journal of Psychiatry. 2011;199(3):180-186. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21881096/
- Cleveland Clinic. (2023, March 3). Fetal Development. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/7247-fetal-development-stages-of-growth