What is a first trimester abortion? What is the procedure?
When you come to our office for a first trimester procedure, we will try to make your stay with us as comfortable and as brief as possible. You can expect to be in our office for 3-5 hours.
During your visit you will:
1. Complete a self medical history and sign consent forms.
2. Leave a urine sample for a pregnancy test.
3. Meet with a one of our trained female counselors to discuss your medical history and your payment options.
4. Have a simple blood test by finger stick.
5. If indicated have a sonogram to estimate the length of pregnancy.
6. Attend a group counseling session where you can ask questions about birth control, contraception, anesthesia, the follow up care, the possible complications, and your feelings about your decision to have an abortion.
7. Meet with the doctor for an examination, discuss your procedure, receive anesthesia, and have your abortion.
8. Rest in our recovery room for as long as you need to feel alert and ready to move. Have some cookies and be discharged. Meet up with your companion or friend for your ride home.
LAB TESTING
There are some laboratory tests which we will need to perform. For these tests we will need samples of your urine and blood. We will use your urine sample to perform a pregnancy test and we use your blood sample to check your iron count and Rh factor.
If your blood is found to be Rh negative (e.g. , O negative, A negative) you will need an injection of Rhogam after your abortion. Rhogam prevents antibodies from being formed in your blood that would cause problems with future pregnancies. If you are Rh negative, it is important that you receive a Rhogam injection with every pregnancy. Please note that there is an additional fee for all Rhogam injections.
LENGTH OF PREGNANCY
A sonogram is considered the most reliable method of assessing how far you are into your pregnancy. A sonogram is a test that uses sound waves to see your pelvic structures. It is not an X-ray and there is no radiation. A sonogram is done while you lie down comfortably. A gel solution is applied to your abdomen and an ultrasound wand is placed on your abdomen. There is little or no discomfort while the sonogram is being performed.

