Facing an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming. If you're considering abortion, it may seem like a quick solution—but it's also a deeply personal decision that can affect your physical health, emotional well-being, and future.
Before making a choice, it's important to slow down and gather accurate medical information. This article outlines key steps to help you make an informed decision about your pregnancy.
Why Your Decision Matters
An unexpected pregnancy is life-changing, no matter what you decide. Many women have questions about their health, relationships, finances, and future goals.
It's completely normal to feel fear, confusion, pressure, or uncertainty. Taking time to understand your situation and options can help ensure your decision aligns with your values, health, and long-term well-being.
Step 1: Receive an Ultrasound
Before considering abortion, it's important to receive a medical-grade ultrasound. An ultrasound confirms:
- Whether the pregnancy is viable
- How far along you are
- Whether the pregnancy is located in the uterus
How Far Along Am I?
Gestational age directly affects which options may be available and the level of medical risk involved. The abortion pill (mifepristone and misoprostol) is FDA-approved only up to 10 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period.[1] Abortions performed later in pregnancy generally carry higher risks and costs.
Currently, abortion is illegal in Alabama.[2] Even if you plan on traveling out of state for an abortion, you should first have an ultrasound.
Miscarriage and Ectopic Pregnancy
- Miscarriage: About 10–20% of known pregnancies end naturally in miscarriage.[3]
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Approximately 1–2% of pregnancies are ectopic, meaning they develop outside the uterus.[4] Ectopic pregnancies are medical emergencies and cannot be treated with abortion pills. Taking abortion drugs in this situation may delay critical care and increase health risks.
If an ultrasound reveals a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, abortion is no longer applicable.
Shoals Women's Clinic offers free limited ultrasounds. Contact us today to learn if you qualify and get answers.
Step 2: Get Tested for STDs
Testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is an important step before considering abortion.
Undiagnosed STIs—such as chlamydia or gonorrhea—can increase the risk of complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), when abortion procedures are performed.[5] PID can lead to chronic pelvic pain, infertility, or future ectopic pregnancies.
A quick and confidential STI test helps protect your reproductive health.
Step 3: Explore All Your Options
The best way to make an informed decision is to understand all of your options:
- Abortion
- Parenting
- Adoption
Each option carries different emotional, physical, and financial considerations. At Shoals Women's Clinic, we offer nonjudgmental options counseling to help you explore what fits your life, circumstances, and goals—without pressure.
Step 4: Get Advice from Someone You Trust
Talking with someone you trust—such as a close friend, family member, or mentor—can provide perspective and support during this decision.
If sharing with someone in your life feels unsafe or uncomfortable, our compassionate advocates at Shoals Women's Clinic are here to listen confidentially, answer your questions, and provide factual information in a supportive environment.
Step 5: Think About Your Future
This decision doesn't just affect today—it can shape your future. Take time to reflect on how each option aligns with your hopes and plans.
Consider asking yourself:
- Does this choice support my long-term health and well-being?
- What physical or emotional effects might I experience?
- Who will support me after this decision?
Journaling, praying, or talking through your thoughts can help bring clarity. Avoid making a decision out of fear, pressure, or urgency.
Considering Abortion in Florence, Alabama? Get Support at Shoals Women's Clinic.
You don't have to navigate this alone. Shoals Women's Clinic offers free, confidential services, including:
- Pregnancy testing
- Limited ultrasounds
- STI testing and referrals for treatment
- Options counseling
We provide a safe, supportive space with no judgment—just personalized guidance to help you make an informed decision.
Call (256) 740-0640 or schedule your appointment online today.
Please note: Shoals Women's Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How far along can I be to take the abortion pill?
The abortion pill is FDA-approved up to 10 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period. An ultrasound is necessary to confirm gestational age. - Is it possible I'm already miscarrying?
Yes. About 10–20% of known pregnancies end in natural miscarriage. If you think you may be miscarrying, contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible. - What if my pregnancy is ectopic?
Ectopic pregnancies are medical emergencies and cannot be treated with abortion pills. An ultrasound is essential to rule this out. If you suspect an ectopic pregnancy, seek emergency medical care immediately. - Why should I get STI testing before considering abortion?
Untreated STIs increase the risk of serious complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause infertility or chronic pain. Testing and treatment help protect your future health. - What options do I have besides abortion?
You may choose parenting with access to support resources, or adoption—where you can select the adoptive family and decide the level of contact you want. We're here to discuss every option confidentially.
Sources
- Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. (2025, January 17). Mifeprex (Mifepristone). U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/mifeprex-mifepristone-information
- Fetal Development. Cleveland Clinic. (2023, March 3). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/7247-fetal-development-stages-of-growth
- Mayo Clinic Staff. (2023, September 8). Miscarriage. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes/syc-20354298
- FDA. (2025, February 11). Questions and Answers on Mifeprex. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifeprex
- Mayo Clinic. (2022, April 30). Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594