Abortion Services to 24 Weeks
The Procedure
If a womans choice is to terminate a pregnancy,
the method used is determined by the length of the pregnancy. Abortions
are performed in the clinic up to 24 weeks from the first day of the last
normal menstrual period (as determined by examination and ultrasound).
Abortions are performed on patients 18 years and older with ID. Minors
must have parental consent with proper ID, or they may be assisted at
clinic in obtaining a judicial bypass.
Through the first 14 weeks of pregnancy, abortions are
done by the suction method. This is completed in one clinic visit, needing
very little pain medication, and has a very low rate of complications.
From 15 to 24 weeks of pregnancy the procedure is performed
by dilation and evacuation (D & E). Osmotic cervical dilators are
inserted into the cervix for easy dilation on the first day, and the abortion
itself is done on the second day, using intravenous sedation. This procedure
requires two clinic visits.
We offer our patients a mild sedative and/or a conscious
(while awake) pain medication. In order to receive either of these medications,
you must be accompanied by an adult driver.
We provide a contact person available 24 hours a day
who is available for questions or concerns following the abortion procedure.
Counseling
Counseling is an important part of each womans
experience at Summit Medical Center. All women are given a complete description
of the abortion procedure before signing a consent form. This counseling
is offered in both group and individual sessions.
This type of education, called informed consent,
was pioneered by workers in the family planning field. We believe that
helping women make educated decisions about their pregnancy is very important.
Informing patients about the safety of abortion and clarifying any misconceptions
they may have assists them in the decision-making process.
Lab Tests
A complete series of diagnostic tests are done on each
patient, including urinalysis, blood counts, Rh-factor testing and ultrasound.
MDCH - Informed Consent Information
The State of Michigan requires that certain information
be made available to those seeking abortions at least 24 hours prior to
their procedure. These documents are available online as well as through
our office. Please click here for more information.
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