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FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS Is
this confidential and private?
We are a private office in a medical office building. All of our records
are completely confidential. No one can find out whether or not you were
here unless you give us written permission to release your records (for
instance, to your doctor for your follow up care). We refuse to confirm
appointments over the phone and will not acknowledge that you are a patient
at the office unless you give us the OK.
Will the surgical abortion hurt?
We make every effort to insure that you will be as comfortable as possible
during the abortion. Most patients tell us that they have no memory of the
procedure.
How safe is the procedure?
Abortion is a very safe, quick procedure that has been perfected over the
past 30 years. As long as an abortion remains legal, it will remain safe.
Complications are very rare. In fact, our clinic has a "very low"
complication rate. Having an abortion in no way interferes with your ability
to have children in the future.
How much bleeding will I have after the abortion?
Again, this varies for every woman. Some women bleed for several days, others
for several weeks. Some women do not bleed at all. We state that any bleeding
is considered normal for 4-6 weeks after the abortion, unless, it is very
heavy.
When will I have my next period?
If you begin using the Pill the Sunday after your abortion, you should expect
your period on the 4th week, although it may not resemble your normal period.
If you are not on the pill, you could get your period any time between 4-6
weeks after the abortion. It may take 2 cycles before your period resumes
normally.
When can I resume normal activities?
Most women feel fine the day after the abortion. You may experience some
cramping and bleeding, but you can return to work/school. You should monitor
your own symptoms. If, after exercise or activity, you experience increased
cramping or bleeding, you should rest. The only activity we ask you to refrain
from is intercourse for 2 weeks.
Why can't my boyfriend/mother/friend be in
the procedure room with me?
We feel strongly that during surgery only medical personnel should be present
in the operating room. Remember, our priority is the patient. Our concern
is that your friend or loved one may get nervous or anxious. We do not want
anything to divert attention away from your medical needs.
Will a doctor be able to tell I had an abortion?
After an abortion, it takes approximately 3 weeks for your cervix to heal.
After that time period, a physician most likely will not be able to tell
you had an abortion. We strongly recommend that you inform your doctor of
your complete medical history including abortions. If you feel your doctor
may "judge" you, we can recommend very good Pro Choice gynecologists.
Why will I be at the office so long, if the
procedure only takes 5-15 minutes?
To provide the best patient care possible, we don't rush anything. There
are forms to fill out, lab work, ultrasound, counseling, the procedure itself
and recovery time. Each woman is treated as an individual and is given individualized
care. |
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