Considering Abortion?
Depending on how early in the pregnancy you are, there are two types of abortion: one is commonly known as the abortion pill, (medical abortion) and one requires a procedure at a clinic (a surgical abortion). However, there are a couple things you should do before you decide what type of abortion is for you.
What is a Medical Abortion?
Medical abortion is available only if you are in your first trimester. It begins with taking a drug called mifepristone, which acts as an antiprogesterone. It blocks the placenta and uterus from receiving progesterone so that the pregnancy cannot progress.
After taking mifepristone, the next step is to expel the pregnancy tissue and fetus from the uterus, which is where the second pill, misoprostol, comes in about 48 hours later.
Discomfort is associated more with this step and includes heavy bleeding, cramping, and large blood clots. It is common for bleeding to continue up to two weeks after the pregnancy.
Even when taking the abortion pill as prescribed, you may still be at risk for serious health complications and severe discomfort. Risks of the abortion pill include infection, sepsis, hemorrhaging, and *incomplete abortion. (*Surgical abortion may be required in this case.)
While some providers sell the abortion pill online, we highly discourage ordering them online. Not only could you be farther along in your pregnancy than you think, which can be very dangerous, but this also bypasses the important physician oversight needed for a medical abortion. Ordering the abortion pill online may seem convenient, but it comes with risks to your health, especially if no ultrasound was required before hand. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/020687Orig1s025Lbl.pdf
How Does Surgical Abortion Work?
Although medication abortion is most popular for the first trimester, surgical abortions can also happen in the first trimester, but they occur within a clinic. Depending on the gestational age of the fetus, the cervix may have to be softened, usually by tablets taken by mouth.
Suction is then used to remove the fetus and placenta. The leftover pregnancy tissues are cleaned with a medical tool called a curette, which looks like a long thick needle. Risks of a surgical abortion include infection, sepsis, hemorrhaging, puncturing of the uterus, and damage to the cervix, which may lead to future fertility complications.
What Should I Do Before an Abortion?
Before deciding to get an abortion, getting an ultrasound is essential. This will reveal crucial information about your pregnancy and determine if you are eligible for an abortion or if the procedure is even necessary. (28% of all pregnancies end in miscarriage before 8 weeks gestation) The only way to confirm the gestational age of the pregnancy and the viability of it is with an ultrasound. Deciding if abortion is the right path for you can be a big decision. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your options and receive an ultrasound in a supportive, confidential environment.
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How do I earn items for my baby through the Practical Parenting Classes?When you register for class, participate in the lesson, submit the lesson homework and other simple tasks, you can earn points that can be redeemed in our Buttons & Bows Boutique, located here at The Refuge Center.
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Is this class only for first time moms and dads?No. Some of our clients already have a child or two. But we have heard that they wish they had taken this class the first time around! But first time parents definitely find the information and lessons extremely beneficial.
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Are the classes conducted in person or online?Currently our Practical Parenting classes are offered online through Brightcourse. (Think of it as Netflix for parenting help). However, to redeem your points for baby care items you will need to set up an in-person shopping appointment with our parenting coordinators.
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How do I enroll in the Practical Motherhood or Practical Fatherhood course?Simply click here and fill out a short form. One of our instructors will contact you within ten business days to set up an orientation and get you started.
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How long can we be enrolled in the program and earn points?You may begin earning points during your pregnancy. The Practical Parenting program has many lessons that can carry you from pregnancy to toddlerhood and beyond. However, due to storage space in our boutique, we have items available for birth to 1 year old babies. Once your child has turned 1 year old and you are no longer earning points, you can still request access to the valuable lessons that our video provides. If you still need material assistance, you can make an appointment to receive a distribution of gently used baby items for your family.
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Do you have everything that I will need for my baby available in the Boutique?All of the items we distribute are provided by the generosity of the community. Therefore, all items are subject to availability. Supplies change weekly.
Refuge does not offer abortion as a service
nor do we refer for abortions.