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How to Prepare for Your Abortion Appointment

If you have decided to have an abortion, please know that you’re not alone and you’re in good hands at Whole Woman’s Health (WWH). According to the Guttmacher Institute, 1 in 4 women will have an abortion before the age of 45. All of us at WWH are proud of you for making the best decision for you. Due to the shame and stigma surrounding abortion care, you might be a bit nervous about your decision and what to expect. Any emotions you’re feeling are normal and we’re here to help you through this.

Making An Appointment 

Whole Woman’s Health (WWH) clinics are in 5 states: Indiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Texas, and Virginia and offer virtual abortion care via telemedicine in 3 states: Minnesota, New Mexico, and Virginia. Your abortion care options, costs, and requirements will vary depending on where you live. No matter where you go, all clinics managed by WWH will greet you with love and kindness and provide you with the non-judgmental abortion care that you deserve. Find a location near you to learn more about the services provided and book your appointment. You can also get abortion medication delivered to your doorstep in Minnesota, New Mexico, and Virginia.

Abortion Options 

There are two common, very safe methods for terminating a pregnancy. The first option is abortion medication and the second is an in-clinic procedure. Each option is effective and comes with its own benefits. Learn more about these two options to make the decision that’s right for you and prepare any questions you may have for our trained providers and staff.

How to Prepare for Your Appointment 

On the day of your in-clinic appointment, please prepare to be in the clinic for 2-4 hours, which varies depending on the state and clinic. This is true even for a medication abortion. 

Wear comfortable clothes, socks, and shoes. 

Please remember to bring a photo ID, your insurance card (if applicable by state law), and form of payment. Your payment will be expected to be paid in full during your service. We do offer financial assistance for patients in need and accept all major insurance plans and Medicaid in states that allow coverage. We also collaborate with many local and national funding organizations to provide support. 

Due to COVID-19 social distancing requirements, we are currently not allowing any loved ones inside the clinic with patients. We understand how important emotional support is to some, and our clinic staff will be there to help you every step of the way. 

We encourage you to bring a cell phone or tablet, ear buds, and a phone charger. Be sure to download your favorite music playlists, podcasts, TV shows, or movies to your phone to keep you entertained during your wait. If you prefer reading, here are some inspirational books that may help you feel empowered while you wait. 

If you are receiving sedation for your procedure, please arrange a ride home.  

If you are currently breastfeeding, you may continue as normal if you receive an in-clinic procedure. If you opt for a medication abortion, the effects of the pills on breastfed infants are still unknown, so please abstain for 26 days following your appointment. 

After your abortion, you may experience cramping. Many people say it feels like menstrual cramps. Every person is different. We offer several options to help you feel comfortable and help manage any pain or anxiety you may feel during your appointment. Our supportive staff is available to address your worries and concerns. 

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