Things to know while considering abortion
Facing an unintended pregnancy can be overwhelming, and if you’re considering abortion, it’s natural to feel unsure about what to do next. At AVA Care of Harrisonburg, we believe every woman deserves to make an informed decision in a safe environment. That’s why we’re here — to provide medically accurate information, compassionate and professional care, and a confidential space to explore all your options so you can be empowered to make an informed decision.
If you’re asking, “How do I plan for my abortion?”, here are important steps to take before making a final decision:
1. Confirm your pregnancy
Before you can make any decisions, it's important to confirm your pregnancy. At-home tests are a helpful first step, but they aren’t always accurate. At AVA Care, we offer urine pregnancy tests that are administered by a licensed healthcare professional. Our medical team may also recommend an hCG blood draw to confirm your pregnancy so you know for sure.
2. Get an ultrasound
An ultrasound gives you key information to determine your next steps:
- How far along you are
- If the pregnancy is viable (i.e., has a heartbeat)
- Whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus (not ectopic)
Since different abortion procedures are used at different stages of pregnancy, this information is essential. AVA Care offers pre-abortion ultrasounds at no cost to you.
3. Understand your options
There are multiple options available to you — abortion is one, but it’s not the only one. Our medical and patient services team provides information on:
- Medication abortion (“the abortion pill”)
- Surgical abortion
- Parenting
- Adoption
We practice holistic care, so we’ll help you understand how each option might affect you physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
4. Know the risks and after-effects
Abortion, like any medical procedure, comes with potential risks and a necessity for follow-up care. Knowing the short- and long-term effects can help you make an informed and confident decision. AVA Care of Harrisonburg provides after abortion assessments four to six weeks after a medical or surgical abortion.
5. Talk to someone you trust
You don’t have to go through this alone. We offer patient advocates who will talk with you in a safe, confidential space. At AVA Care, we’re here to advocate for you, validate your concerns, and provide answers to your questions. We’re here for you—no matter what you decide.
6. Avoid rushing the decision
You have time. No one should pressure you into a decision, especially one this important. At AVA Care, we provide a safe, confidential place to pause and think through your next steps.
What AVA Care offers (at no cost to you):
- Pregnancy testing & confirmation through ultrasound
- Pregnancy options information
- STI testing & treatment
- Patient advocacy
- A confidential and compassionate environment
Considering abortion and planning next steps can feel like a lot. But you’re not alone. AVA Care of Harrisonburg is here to empower you in your pregnancy decisions so you can make a confident and well-informed choice.
Call us or
request an appointment — all services are confidential and at no cost to you.
