Making an appointment for abortion services comes with a lot of questions. What happens when you arrive? Will you need an ultrasound? How far along are you? Do you have to decide on a procedure the same day?
Your first appointment for abortion in New Jersey is mostly about sharing information about your pregnancy, reviewing your options, and asking any questions you have.
At Metropolitan Medical Associates, we provide individualized, confidential care. Here’s what you can expect during your first appointment for abortion.
Things to Know Before Your First Appointment for Abortion in New Jersey
Before heading to the clinic, gather any information about your medical history and pregnancy. Knowing the first day of your last menstrual period can be especially helpful because it gives your provider an idea of how far along you may be.
You’ll also want to bring your insurance information with you. We accept Medicaid and other insurance options.
The sooner you provide your insurance information, the better. This way we can verify your coverage ASAP.
What Happens When I Arrive?
Your visit will begin like any other doctor’s appointment. You’ll check in and fill out paperwork that may be needed.
During your appointment, you’ll review your medical history. Your provider will ask about things like:
- Your medical history
- If you’re taking any medications
- Any previous pregnancies
- Other information that could affect your care
After the conversation, you may be given a urine test to confirm you’re pregnant. Blood testing may also be needed, including anemia and Rh factor testing.
These steps give your medical team important information before discussing treatment.
Will I Need an Ultrasound?
During your first appointment, an ultrasound may be performed to determine the size and gestational age of the pregnancy. Gestational age directly impacts which abortion options are available to you..
At MMA, we offer medication abortion for early pregnancies, as well as procedural abortion options such as a D&C or D&E, depending on whether you’re in the first or second trimester.
In some instances, an ultrasound may be used to detect potential fetal abnormalities.
A Discussion About Abortion Options
A thorough discussion with your provider is one of the most important parts of your appointment.
You’ll talk about how medication and procedural abortion methods work, what the process involves, what to expect during recovery, and what risks or side effects you should know about.
You’ll also be given an opportunity to discuss concerns and ask any questions.
What Happens After Making a Decision?
Once you and your healthcare provider have discussed your options, you’ll receive instructions specific to your care. This may include information about medications to avoid, what symptoms you may expect, warning signs to watch for, follow-up care, and when you can resume normal activities.
If you’re having a procedural abortion, be sure to ask about transportation requirements, particularly if sedation or anesthesia is involved. It’s much easier to arrange a ride ahead of time than to figure it out at the last minute.
A Discussion About Birth Control Options
Your first abortion appointment is also a great time to talk about what comes next.
If you want to prevent another pregnancy, you should discuss birth control options. Contraception should always be part of the larger conversation about your reproductive healthcare.
You can also bring up concerns about future fertility. Despite what you may have read online or been told, early surgical abortion doesn’t generally affect the ability to get pregnant in the future.
How Long Does the Appointment Take?
The length of your appointment depends on many factors. Chances are you visit will involve filling out paperwork, discussing your medical history, pregnancy testing, counseling or education, and a discussion of your treatment options.
The actual time depends on your individual circumstances and whether treatment is provided that day.
When scheduling, ask how much time you should plan to spend at the clinic so you aren’t rushing to get somewhere else afterward.
What If I Need Emotional Support?
Abortion is a medical experience, but you don’t have to treat it like one emotionally. Getting an abortion can cause many different emotions.
You may feel relieved, nervous, sad, certain, overwhelmed, or several emotions at the same time. These feelings can change day-by-day, sometimes hour-by hour.
If bringing someone with you would make the day easier, ask the clinic about its visitor or support-person policies. You should also make a plan for what you’ll do after the appointment. Emotional support is available.
Tips to Prepare for Your First Abortion Appointment in New Jersey
The most useful thing you can do to prepare for your first appointment is to gather important information and to make a list of questions.
Be sure to write down anything you don’t want to forget to ask. Think about topics like:
If you’re having a surgical abortion, you may want to ask about anesthesia and aftercare.
Your First Appointment for Abortion Doesn’t Have to Be Scary
Preparing for an abortion appointment can cause a whirlwind of emotions. But, taking the time to prepare and knowing what to expect can make things go a lot more smoothly.
For quality care that starts the moment you enter the door, choose Metropolitan Medical Associates. We not only offer abortion services, but also birth control, STD screening, and even cancer screenings.
Don’t wait to get the care and support you need. Contact us at 201-429-9748 today or book an appointment online below and let’s start this journey together.