Common Questions
The most commonly asked questions and our answers.
How is an abortion procedure performed? Does it hurt?
Our doctor uses a vacuum aspiration method which generally takes under 5 minutes. Usually the last minute or so is “crampy” and then in 20 minutes or so it fades off. An abortion at 14 weeks or more will take under 10 minutes and cause more cramping. You can choose narcotic pain relievers and sedation if you have a ride home.
You can also choose the abortion pill under 10 weeks from the first day of the last period which causes a miscarriage at home. Ask for more information about the abortion pill.
HOW DOES THE ABORTION PILL WORK? DOES IT HURT?
The abortion pill is actually two medications—mifepristone and misoprostol. The first pill, mifepristone, causes the pregnancy sac to detach from the wall of the uterus and stop growing. The second pills are taken 24-48 hours after the first and help the uterus cramp and pass the pregnancy. During this second stage you can expect bleeding, clots, and cramps for several hours. Usually, the farther along the pregnancy is the more cramping you can expect. It is most effective and tolerable in early pregnancies.
At STWHS we routinely do an ultrasound to determine how far along the pregnancy is and to be sure it is in the uterus. If we cannot see the pregnancy in the uterus, we will want to make sure it is not a tubal or “ectopic” pregnancy, which can be life threatening.
The abortion pill is somewhat less effective than the procedure and is less effective in later gestations; a follow-up exam is important to make sure everything is complete. If you need a procedure to complete it we will provide that at no additional cost to you. We also offer pain and anti-nausea medications for home use.
If you have already started a process with an online outlet such as Hey Jane, we can partner with you for these services. We accept NYS Medicaid and Blue Shield insurances and our discounted cash fees are at reasonable. We also have access to financial assistance.
For more information click here.
What happens during my visit?
Your visit here can take 3-4 hours or more depending on patients’ arrival times and several other factors. For each person, we want to perform some lab tests and an ultrasound. We give everyone a chance to understand what’s going to happen, discuss your decision, ask any questions you may have and give your consent. Although the procedure usually takes less than 5-10 minutes, the pre-op medications sometimes take 1-2 hours to work, and afterwards you will be in recovery for about 30 minutes. Those patients choosing the abortion pill may have a shorter visit but a second visit is required.
Will I bleed or cramp afterwards?
Probably. With either the procedure or abortion pill, it’s possible to bleed up to two weeks. Cramps are usually relieved by Ibuprofen, Aleve, or Tylenol.
How will I feel emotionally after the abortion?
Most women feel relieved and a mix of other emotions. How you feel afterwards is mostly determined about how you feel about your decision now, other stresses in your life, and how much support you have. If you feel especially ambivalent or upset, please tell us. Ask for the Pregnancy Options Workbook or call All Options at 888-493-0092 to discuss your options. We want you to make the best decision for your life.
Is this confidential?
We take your confidentiality seriously. Please let us know if you are expecting a call from someone checking on you, or if you are worried about someone trying to find out information about you. Your records will be released only at your signed request. Our full HIPAA policy on confidentiality is available upon request.
“With sincere thanks for your kindness. It was appreciated more than words can say.’ I cannot tell you how nice it was to have people understand how much I am afraid of needles. Thank you for understanding and taking such good care of me.”
- Corinna, Patient of Southern Tier Women’s Health Services, LLC