FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We’re often asked similar questions, so we’ve listed our most frequently asked questions about abortion, the abortion procedure, and what to expect before and after your procedure.
If you have a question that is not listed here – don’t hesitate to contact us before your appointment or when you sit down with one of our counselors.
How long will my appointment take?
You can plan on being at our office for up to 2-4 hours. This includes time for filling out paperwork, lab work, consults with physician and the nurse anesthetist. The procedure itself is about 5 minutes and then you will be in the recovery room from anywhere between 20 minutes to 30 minutes.
If I am under the age of 18 do I need parental consent?
In the state of Maryland a pregnant female over the age of 16 is “emancipated with respect to matters concerning the pregnancy”. This means she has the right to control her own decisions about her pregnancy. This includes decisions about pre-natal care and abortion.
Generally, parental or guardian consent should be obtained.
The physician may perform the abortion without notifying the parent or guardian if the physician efforts to notify them have failed. (MD. Code Ann., Health Gen ss20-103 (b))
Parental consent not required. The doctor may also perform the abortion without notifying the parent or guardian if the physician decides that:
- Notice to the parent or guardian may lead to physical or emotional abuse of the minor,
- The minor is mature and capable of giving informed consent to an abortion, or
- Notification would not be in the “best interest” of the minor.
How early in my pregnancy do I need to be to terminate my pregnancy?
We prefer our patients to be at least 5 weeks. This is when the gestational sac can be picked up on the sonogram. Learn more about a medical abortion, commonly known as the Abortion Pill for early abortion care.
How much do I need to bring with me, if I am using my insurance?
We cannot answer that right away until we speak with your insurance provider. You may call our office and we can verify your benefits for you.
How long can I expect to bleed after my surgery?
You can have off and on bleeding all the way until you get your menstrual, which is usually about 4-6 weeks after the date of your procedure. This is normal, you should only be concerned if you are passing large clots or bleeding heavier than a menstrual. You can always call our office 24 hrs. a day if there is concern.
What should I bring with me?
Leave all your valuables at home except your photo i.d., your insurance card and your payment. As for your payment if you are paying in cash please bring exact cash because we do not keep change.
What payments are accepted?
We accept Visa, MC, American Express, Discover, Money Orders and bank checks. learn more
Do I have to come back after the procedure?
You will be given a 2 week follow-up appointment before you are discharged. It is very important to keep this appointment to make sure your body is healing properly and free of infection. If you have had a medical abortion, you must come to have a sonogram done. We will compare the sonogram to your initial sonogram to make sure all tissue has been passed.
Do you offer birth control after abortions?
We do offer sample packs of birth control to get you started. You should start your birth control the very first Sunday after your procedure. If you have chosen Depo-Provera you can pay $50.00 for our depo if you do not have insurance or the physician may give you a prescription. If you are interested in getting an IUD, Mirena, Liletta or Nexplanon you must wait until you get your menstrual. You can have your consultation at your 2 week follow-up.