Before an abortion: 5 questions to ask yourself

Before you go to a facility that does abortions, take the time to ask yourself these five questions about your health and safety.

1. Has your pregnancy been confirmed and dated?

   A home test can be wrong. An ultrasound confirms the pregnancy, shows how far along it is and checks that it is inside the uterus.¹ It also lets you see your baby, and often see the heart beating.² An ectopic pregnancy (outside the uterus) is a medical emergency that an abortion does not resolve.³ Pregnancy resource centres offer free tests and can help you get an ultrasound.

2. Do you know the procedure and its risks?

   Abortion carries real physical risks.⁴ You have the right to know which procedure you will be offered and what complications are possible.⁵ Ask every question you have, until you clearly understand what is involved, physically and emotionally.

3. Who will take care of you if there is a complication?

   Ask who provides follow-up care, whom to call at night or on weekends, and which hospital you would go to in an emergency.

4. Are you making this decision freely?

   No one, not your partner, your family or an employer, has the right to force you to have an abortion.⁵ If you feel pressured, talk to someone you trust, or to us.

5. Do you know you can change your mind?

   You can say "I need more time" at any moment, in the waiting room or on the examination table.⁵ Listen to what you feel deep down.