An unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming. If you’re looking for an abortion clinic in St Cloud and Waite Park, Minnesota, it’s important to know what to expect. This can help you make a fully informed decision.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- The different types of in-clinic abortion procedures
- The possible risks and side effects
- What to do before visiting an abortion clinic
What to Do Before Visiting an Abortion Clinic
Before visiting an abortion clinic, it’s crucial to receive an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy viability and gestational age. This information helps you understand your pregnancy options and make the best decision for your health.
Viability
Viable pregnancies continue to progress. Medical professionals look for signs like a fetal heartbeat that can appear with a vaginal ultrasound between 5 and 6 weeks of pregnancy.[1]
An ultrasound helps rule out nonviable pregnancies such as miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies (where the embryo grows outside the uterus). In these cases, abortion is not necessary, and alternative medical interventions are required.
Gestational Age
Gestational age refers to how far along you are in your pregnancy. Although you can try to calculate based on your last menstrual period, the most accurate measurement is done with an ultrasound.
Knowing your gestational age is crucial to determining what type of abortion you qualify for.
Pregnancy Resource Center + Medical Clinic provides free ultrasounds to women who receive positive pregnancy tests at our center.
Types of In-Clinic Abortion Procedures
The type of in-clinic abortion you can receive depends on how far along your pregnancy is. The abortion provider will recommend either a suction (vacuum) aspiration or a dilation and evacuation (D&E).
Suction (Vacuum) Aspiration Abortion
A suction (vacuum) aspiration abortion is performed up to 13 weeks of pregnancy. Here’s how it works:
- Before the procedure, small instruments or a medication is used to open (dilate) the cervix.
- Misoprostol may also be given to soften the cervix.
- During the procedure itself, a suction device is used to remove the fetus.
Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)
A dilation and evacuation (D&E) is a surgical abortion most often performed after 13 weeks and up until 24 weeks of pregnancy. This procedure is usually performed under anesthesia. It’s more complex than a suction (vacuum) aspiration abortion due to the fetus’s size. [2] Here’s how it works:
- Before the procedure, sponge-like sticks (laminaria) are inserted into the cervix.
- These sticks absorb moisture and gradually expand, opening the cervix.
- During the procedure itself, a suction device and tools like forceps are used to remove the fetus.
Labor Induction Abortion
Beyond 16 weeks of pregnancy, a labor induction abortion is required. These occur in a hospital because of the steps required.
How Much Does an In-Clinic Abortion Cost?
In Minnesota, an in-clinic abortion can cost between $738 to $846[3], depending on how far along you are and whether or not you have insurance.
These prices do not include the cost of any pre-screening services (such as an ultrasound) or follow-up care.
Side Effects and Risks
Common side effects of surgical abortion include cramping, spotting, and bleeding. These can last up to two weeks, depending on the procedure. One study found that second-trimester abortions can be more painful than expected.[4]
Potential physical risks include:
- Uterine Perforation: An instrument may accidentally puncture the uterus, possibly needing surgical repair.[5]
- Asherman Syndrome: Scar tissue inside the uterus from repeated procedures can impact future fertility.[6]
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Bacteria introduced during surgery may cause infection in the reproductive tract.[7]
Additionally, some women report experiencing mental health struggles after abortion. Examples include:[8][9]
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Low self-esteem
- Substance abuse
- Suicidal behaviors
If you’re thinking about suicide, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away.
Frequently Asked Questions about In-Clinic Abortions
Q: How long does recovery take after an in-clinic abortion?
Recovery time varies depending on the type of procedure and how far along the pregnancy is. Most women experience cramping and bleeding for a few days to up to two weeks. Some women also need additional time for emotional recovery.
Q: Will I feel pain during an in-clinic abortion procedure?
Pain levels differ for each person. Suction aspiration procedures often involve cramping similar to strong menstrual cramps, while second-trimester D&E procedures are typically performed under anesthesia. Many women report the pain was more intense than they expected, especially in later procedures.
Q: Why should I get an ultrasound before an abortion?
An ultrasound confirms the pregnancy is viable, rules out ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, and accurately measures gestational age. Pregnancy Resource Center + Medical Clinic provides free ultrasounds and confidential support to help you make an informed decision.
Considering an In-Clinic Abortion in St Cloud and Waite Park, Minnesota? Visit Pregnancy Resource Center + Medical Clinic First.
If you’re considering an in-clinic abortion in St Cloud and Waite Park, Minnesota, Pregnancy Resource Center + Medical Clinic is here to help you make an informed decision. We offer:
- Free Services: Pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, STD testing.
- Compassionate Support: A safe space to ask questions and explore your options without pressure.
- Personalized Guidance: We are here to answer your questions and help you explore each of your pregnancy options.
Give us a call at 320-253-1962 or schedule your appointment online today.
Please be aware that Pregnancy Resource Center + Medical Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services.
*Important note: Please be aware that this article is not meant to substitute for medical advice or treatment. The purpose of our limited ultrasound exams is to identify a pregnancy inside the uterus, detect the fetal heartbeat, and estimate how far along you are. If there is no detectable heartbeat, it may indicate a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy is occurring. If we cannot detect a fetal heartbeat during your appointment, we will provide appropriate referrals for follow-up care and treatment.
Sources
- Cleveland Clinic. (2023, March 3). Fetal Development. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/7247-fetal-development-stages-of-growth
- Dilation and Evacuation (D&E). Michigan Department of Health & Human Services. (n.d.). https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/informedconsent/michigans-informed-consent-for-abortion-law/procedures/dilation-and-evacuation-de
- As advertised by abortion providers.
- Dzuba, I. G., Chandrasekaran, S., Fix, L., Blanchard, K., & King, E. (2022, May 12). Pain, Side Effects, and Abortion Experience Among People Seeking Abortion Care in the Second Trimester. Women’s Health Reports (New Rochelle, N.Y.). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9148646/
- U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2024, April 5). Abortion – Surgical. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002912.htm
- Mayo Clinic. (2024, July 6). Elective Abortion: Does it Affect Subsequent Pregnancies? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/expert-answers/abortion/faq-20058551
- Mayo Clinic. (2022, April 30). Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594
- Fergusson, D. M., Horwood, L. J., & Ridder, E. M. (2005, September 22). Abortion in young women and subsequent mental health. Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health. https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1469-7610.2005.01538.x
- Coleman, PK. Abortion and mental health: quantitative synthesis and analysis of research published 1995–2009. British Journal of Psychiatry. 2011;199(3):180-186. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21881096/
- Office of the Revisor of Statutes. (2023, January 31). CHAPTER 4–H.F.No. 1. https://www.revisor.mn.gov/laws/2023/0/Session+Law/Chapter/4/