How to Get an Abortion

Abortion is safe and legal in the United States and can be performed in many clinics and medical offices across the country. For a safe and legal abortion, there are several ways that the procedure can be performed during the first trimester of pregnancy. After the first trimester, many clinics will not perform the procedure and in some areas there are fewer legal methods available during the second trimester.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Choose a clinic close enough to travel to that offers the type of procedure you want. Decide how you want to have anesthesia and make sure they offer the type that you want.
2. Call the clinic and arrange an appointment time. Schedule a pre-counseling session if it's required in your area. Ask about any other requirements that must be met before the abortion can take place.
3. Go to your appointment on an empty stomach and with a support person if possible. Have a ride home if you will be heavily sedated.
4. Give a urine sample to confirm the pregnancy and sign all of the appropriate forms. Get a blood test and an ultrasound if required.
5. Arrange for payment of the procedure and get any health insurance coverage confirmed.
6. Have the doctor give you the appropriate anesthesia and perform the abortion. Spend an hour or more at the clinic or office under observation by nurses to ensure that the procedure has not caused any complications.
7. Get your support person to take you home to rest and recover. Seek counseling afterward if you feel you need it.

Tips & Warnings

• Investigate all the alternatives to abortion before committing to the procedure.