Facing an unexpected pregnancy can feel overwhelming. Abortion may seem like a quick and private solution. 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.
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: Confirm the Pregnancy & Get Tested for STDs
Before moving forward with an abortion, it’s important to confirm you are pregnant. This is always our first step to help us determine the next, best ways to help you. We use only lab-grade quality pregnancy tests that can detect pregnancy early on. This is completed through a urine sample, and the same sample is then used to test for STDs.
Before considering abortion, it’s critical to get tested for STDs.
Having an untreated STD during an abortion can increase the risk of complications like Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which may lead to infertility.[1]
A simple, confidential STD test can help you make an informed decision. Skipping this step could put your long-term reproductive health at risk.At Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center, we offer free STD testing and treatment, so you can protect your health. Click the button below to schedule an appointment.
Step 2: 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.
Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center is here to help you weigh these options and answer your questions without judgment.
Step 3: Get An Ultrasound
After your pregnancy has been confirmed, it’s important to determine how far along you are with an ultrasound 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.[2]
Additionally, abortion is currently illegal in Iowa after cardiac activity can be detected by an ultrasound, typically around 6 weeks of pregnancy. Exceptions can be made in cases of rape, incest, or when abortion is considered necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman. To qualify for an exception, people must report the rape resulting in pregnancy within 45 days to law enforcement or a public health agency or doctor, and within 140 for cases of incest.[3]
Miscarriage and Ectopic Pregnancy
The ultrasound can show if you’re likely to have a miscarriage 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.
Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center provides free ultrasounds, so you can confirm your pregnancy! Contact us to see if you qualify.
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 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. Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center 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 Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center can help you figure out your priorities.
Considering Abortion in Cedar Rapids, Iowa? Get the Facts at Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center.
If you’re considering abortion in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center is here to help you make a fully informed decision. We offer:
- Free Services: Pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, STD testing and treatment.
- Confidential Support: A safe space to ask questions and explore your options without pressure.
- Personalized Guidance: Information tailored to your situation, free from bias.
Don’t wait to get the care you deserve. Give us a call at (319) 364-8968 or schedule your appointment online today.
Please be aware that Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
- Mayo Clinic. (2022, April 30). Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594
- 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
- The Iowa Legislature. (2024, November 19). Chapter 146C. Abortion — Detectable Fetal Heartbeat. https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/code/146C.pdf
- 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