Facing an unexpected 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 Portland, Maine. Keep reading to learn more.
Why 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: 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 heartbeat. 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]
It’s always important to get an ultrasound before making a decision, because a pregnancy in an unknown location is possible. This is called an ectopic pregnancy. This is a life-threatening situation that requires emergency care. Not only can ectopic pregnancies be life-threatening, 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.
ABBA, Women’s Choice 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 ultrasound exams is to identify a pregnancy inside the uterus, detect the fetal heartbeat, and estimate how far along you are. If there is no detectable heartbeat, it may indicate a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy is occurring. If we cannot detect a fetal heartbeat during your appointment, we will provide appropriate referrals for follow-up care and treatment.
Step 2: Get Tested for STIs
Before considering abortion, it’s critical to get tested for STIs.
Having an untreated STI during an abortion can increase the risk of complications like Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which may lead to infertility.[4]
A simple, confidential STI test can help you make an informed decision. Skipping this step could put your long-term reproductive health at risk.
At ABBA, Women’s Choice, we offer free STI testing and treatment, so you can protect your health! Click the button below to schedule an appointment.
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.
ABBA, Women’s Choice 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. ABBA, Women’s Choice 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 ABBA, Women’s Choice can help you figure out your priorities.
Considering Abortion in Portland, Maine? Get the Facts at ABBA, Women’s Choice.
If you’re considering abortion in Portland, Maine, ABBA, Women’s Choice 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 207-253-5555 or schedule your appointment online today.
Please be aware that ABBA, Women’s Choice 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