Considering Abortion? Key Steps to Make an Informed Decision

Facing an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming. Abortion may seem like a quick and private solution, but it’s a deeply personal choice that can shape your future. You owe it to yourself to make an informed and empowered decision.

This article outlines critical steps to help you make an informed decision if you’re considering abortion. Keep reading to learn more.

Why Your Decision Matters

An unexpected pregnancy is a life-changing event, no matter what you choose. Many women come to us with questions about their relationships, health, and how their decision will impact their future. 

It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions. That’s why taking time to reflect is so important. Slow down, take a deep breath, and let’s walk through what you need to consider.

Step 1: Receive an Ultrasound

Before making a decision about your pregnancy, it’s important to receive an ultrasound to determine how far along you are and whether you’re at risk for a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

How Far Along Am I?

It’s important to know how far along you are because the abortion pill is only FDA-approved for up to 10 weeks from your last menstrual period.^[1] 

Additionally, abortion is legal only up until viability in Connecticut. Exceptions can be made after viability to preserve the life or health of the pregnant woman.^[2]

Viability refers to the point in pregnancy when a fetus is developed enough to survive outside the womb with medical help, which occurs at approximately 24 weeks of pregnancy.^[3]

Miscarriage and Ectopic Pregnancy

The ultrasound can show if a miscarriage has occurred and if the pregnancy is inside the uterus. 

10-20% of known pregnancies naturally end in miscarriage.^[4] Additionally, a small number of pregnancies form outside the uterus, known as ectopic pregnancy. Not only can ectopic pregnancies be life-threatening, but the abortion pill doesn’t treat them.^[5]

If your ultrasound determines that you’re experiencing a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, abortion is no longer an option to consider. You will need to see a doctor to get the appropriate medical care, as the abortion pill will not take care of a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut provides free ultrasounds, so you can confirm your pregnancy! Contact us to see if you qualify. 

Step 2: Get Tested for STIs

Before considering abortion, it’s critical to get tested for STIs.

Having an untreated STD during a surgical abortion can increase the risk of complications like Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which may lead to infertility.^[6]

A simple, confidential STD test can help you make an informed decision. Skipping this step could put your long-term reproductive health at risk.

Step 3: Explore All Your Options

The best way to make an informed decision is to explore all of your options: abortion, adoption, and parenting. Each has its own implications for your emotional, physical, and financial future. Take time to explore what each path might mean for you.

The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut is here to help you weigh these options and answer your questions without judgment.

Step 4: Get Advice from Someone You Trust

When facing a big decision, it’s always smart to get advice from someone you trust. It’s especially helpful if they’ve experienced an unplanned pregnancy or abortion before. They’ll be able to give you practical advice.

Don’t feel safe confiding in someone you know? That’s ok. The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut can help. Our compassionate client advocates are here to listen to you, answer your questions, and provide the unbiased information you need to make the best decision for your health and future.

Step 5: Think About Your Future

Your future is likely at the heart of your decision. Whether you’re focused on career goals, financial stability, or personal relationships, an unexpected pregnancy can feel like a roadblock. 

Ask yourself:

• How will my choice align with my long-term goals?

• What emotional or physical impacts might I face?

• Who can I trust to support me through this?

Taking time to reflect ensures you’re not reacting out of fear or pressure. Journaling, talking to a trusted friend, or meeting with a client advocate at The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut can help you figure out your priorities.

Considering Abortion in Eastern CT? Get the Facts at The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut.

If you’re considering abortion in Eastern CT, The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut is here to help you make a fully informed decision. We offer:

• Free Services: Pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and options education.

• Confidential Support: A safe space to ask questions and explore your options without pressure.

• Personalized Guidance: Information tailored to your situation, free from bias.

Call or text us at 860-576-8072 or request your appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge! 

Please be aware that The Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut does not provide or refer for abortion services.

Sources

1. 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

2. Connecticut General Attorney. (2022, July 1). Public Act No. 22-19. https://cga.ct.gov/2022/ACT/PA/PDF/2022PA-00019-R00HB-05414-PA.PDF     

3. Breborowicz, G. (2001, January). Limits of fetal viability and its enhancement. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11753511/ 

4. Mayo Clinic Staff. (2023, September 8). Miscarriage. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pregnancy-loss-miscarriage/symptoms-causes/syc-20354298

5. 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

6. Mayo Clinic. (2022, April 30). Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594