Considering Abortion? Key Steps to Make an Informed Decision
Facing an unplanned 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 in central Oregon. Keep reading to learn more.
Why Your Decision Matters
An unplanned 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 moving forward with abortion, 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 pregnancies up to 10 weeks gestation (or 70 days or less since the first day of your last menstrual period).[1]
Viability
The ultrasound can show if your pregnancy is viable by detecting the fetal cardiac activity. If it cannot be detected, it may indicate that a miscarriage (spontaneous loss of a pregnancy) is occurring. This requires alternative medical care. 10-20% of known pregnancies naturally end in miscarriage.[2]
While some pregnancies end naturally in miscarriage, a smaller percentage can develop outside the uterus. This is called an ectopic pregnancy and can be life-threatening and require emergency care. Additionally, but the abortion pill doesn’t treat them.[3]
If you’re experiencing a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, abortion is no longer an option to consider.
The Pregnancy Resource Centers of Central Oregon provides free ultrasounds, so you can confirm your pregnancy! Contact us to see if you qualify.
*Important note: Please be aware that this article is not meant to substitute for medical advice or treatment. The purpose of our limited OB ultrasound exams is to identify a pregnancy inside the uterus, detect the fetal (cardiac activity) heartbeat, and estimate how far along you are in pregnancy. If we are unable to confirm your pregnancy during your appointment, we will provide appropriate referrals for follow-up care and treatment.
Step 2: Get Tested for STI/STDs
Before considering abortion, it’s critical to get tested for STI/STDs.
Having an untreated STI/STD during an abortion can increase the risk of complications like Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which may lead to infertility.[4]
A simple, confidential STI/STD test can help you make an informed decision. Skipping this step could put your long-term reproductive health at risk.
At The Pregnancy Resource Centers of Central Oregon, we offer free referrals for STI/STD testing and treatment, so you can protect your health!
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 Pregnancy Resource Centers of Central Oregon 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 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 Pregnancy Resource Centers of Central Oregon 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 unplanned 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 Pregnancy Resource Centers of Central Oregon can help you figure out your priorities.
Considering Abortion? Get the Facts at The Pregnancy Resource Centers of Central Oregon.
If you’re considering abortion, The Pregnancy Resource Centers of Central Oregon is here to help you make a fully informed decision. We offer:
Free Services: Pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, referrals to community resources.
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 541-728-3037 or schedule your appointment online to get started.
Please be aware that The Pregnancy Resource Centers of Central Oregon does not provide or refer for abortion services.
Sources
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
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
Mayo Clinic. (2022, April 30). Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594
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