Arizona Abortion Safety Checklist
Abortion Safety
Your health and well-being are paramount. Your local Arizona pregnancy center understands that this is your pregnancy, your future, and ultimately, your choice. Their commitment is to support and empower you, ensuring you have all the necessary information to make a decision you feel confident about.
If you find yourself uncertain or have questions, we warmly invite you to speak with their knowledgeable staff or medical team.
Considering an Abortion?
Follow Our Abortion Safety Checklist:
1. Confirm Your Pregnancy
A standard pregnancy test does not provide a complete confirmation of pregnancy. An ultrasound, which an Arizona pregnancy center provides at no cost, will confirm the presence of a pregnancy within the uterus and determine its stage. This is essential as it affects the types of abortion procedures available to you.
2. Understand the Risks
Like any medical intervention, abortions carry their own set of risks, both immediate and long-term. We recommend discussing these with our medical professionals to fully understand the potential impacts on your health.
3. Consider All Alternatives
Making an informed decision involves exploring every available option—abortion, adoption, or parenting. This choice is deeply personal, and taking the time to consider all possibilities will equip you with the assurance to make the best decision for yourself.
4. Get Tested for STDs/STIs
Undergoing an abortion with an untreated STD/STI can increase the risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may lead to future infertility or chronic pain. We offer free referrals for comprehensive STD/STI testing and treatment to safeguard your health.
5. Take a Moment to Reflect
When faced with a significant decision, it’s beneficial to pause and reflect on your feelings and concerns. Visit your local Arizona pregnancy clinic to discuss your thoughts and questions, ensuring you are fully prepared to make an informed choice about your pregnancy.
Questions For You
Question: Has your pregnancy been medically confirmed?
Answer: Even if you’ve had a positive pregnancy test, you will need an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy, determine how far along you are, and rule out an ectopic or tubal pregnancy. As many as 1 in 4 pregnancies end in a natural miscarriage, and more than 80% of miscarriages occur in the first three months of pregnancy.
Question: Are you aware of which abortion procedure is appropriate for you?
Answer: Consider all your options. At your local pregnancy center you can receive a pre-abortion screening at no-cost by a medical professional.
Question: Do you understand the details of the abortion procedure and what to expect afterwards?
cnswer: At your local pregnancy Center you can receive a pre-abortion screening at no-cost by a medical professional.
Question: Are you informed about the possible physical and emotional risks and complications associated with the abortion procedure?
Answer: You deserve to be informed with all the facts. At your local pregnancy center you can receive a pre-abortion screening at no-cost by a medical professional.
Question: Does the clinic you have chosen commit to providing care for any complications that may arise?
Answer: Remember, you are not alone in navigating this decision. We encourage you to take the time you need to consider all aspects of your choice. If you have any questions, need more information, or simply wish to talk to someone who understands, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Question: Do you know that it is completely acceptable to change your mind?
Answer: Many women who have experienced abortion relate that they felt they could not change their mind once they had entered the facility. Others say that they waited on the table to be “rescued” by the baby’s father at the last minute. Some facilities even told the women that they couldn’t get their money back if they changed their mind, which is not legal.
Abortion providers understand this choice is a difficult decision and can work to encourage you to abort even as they say, “I simply can’t do this!” Know your rights. Don’t be pressured or intimidated, particularly by the clinic staff. If you are not sure about your abortion decision, you can change your mind. If the procedure is not performed, demand your money back.
Question: Have there been any legal actions against the clinic or its physicians?
Answer: Abortion is legal in the United States, but bad medical care is not. Women have died as a result of their “safe and legal abortions.” Some have had their bodies harmed to the point that they can no longer have children. Be sure and do your research.
Question: Is a licensed physician required to perform a surgical abortion?
Answer: Yes, only a licensed physician can perform an abortion, regardless of the type of abortion or the facility where it takes place.
Question: When was your last STD/STI test?
Answer: An untreated infection can cause complications if not treated before an abortion. Many local pregnancy centersoffers free STI testing.
Question: Have you received information about the abortion pill and surgical abortion options?
Answer: Pregnancy centers are committed to ensuring that your decision is an empowered one, rooted in full awareness and understanding. During your initial visit, they will provide detailed information about the various types of abortion procedures and thoroughly discuss all your pregnancy options with you.
Question: Are you aware of the complications related to the abortion procedure and emotional aftereffects?
Answer: Your local pregnancy center offers complimentary medical consultations with one of their nurses during your ultrasound exam. This session gives you the opportunity to discuss your health history, address any concerns about potential complications or side effects, and openly talk about your feelings regarding the abortion process. We encourage you to take the time needed to ensure you are fully informed and supported.
Question: Do you feel any external pressure to proceed with an abortion?
Answer: It is against the law for anyone to force you to have an abortion. Not even a husband or parent can require you to undergo an abortion against your will, even if you are a minor (under 18 years old). Pregnancy centers exist to help you in any circumstance. They can even help you discuss this choice with those closest to you that are influencing your decision.
Arizona Pregnancy Centers
Arizona pregnancy centers offer confidential services across major cities like Phoenix, Tucson, and Mesa, as well as many smaller towns. These pregnancy centers provide vital, no-cost options including medical-grade pregnancy tests and ultrasound exams, making support accessible statewide to meet local needs.
252 N Ironwood Dr
Apache Junction, AZ 85117
480-983-4673
We Care Crisis Pregnancy Ctr
143 S. Quarter Horse #2
Benson, AZ 85602
520-402-2013
Pregnancy Care Center of Chandler
590 N. Alma School Road #20
Chandler, AZ 85224
623-343-8483
Life Pregnancy Center
448 N Hwy 89 Suite C
Chino Valley, AZ 86323
928-636-5025
Hope Women's Center
2020 S. 9th Street
Coolidge, AZ 85128
520-723-8888
House of Ruth Pregnancy Care Ctr
1198 E. Mingus Avenue
Cottonwood, AZ 86326
928-634-0212
Hope Women's Center
12101 NW Grand Ave
El Mirage, AZ 85335
623-875-4549
Hope Pregnancy Resource Center
224 S. Kendrick St
Flagstaff, AZ 86003
928-774-8302
Choices
10555 N. 58th Street
Glendale, AZ 85302
623-486-5232
Lake Havasu Pregnancy Care
500 N. Lake Havasu Ave, Suite B104
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
928-855-2273
Hope Women's Center
45978 W. McDavid Rd
Maricopa, AZ 85139
520-568-0532
New Life Pregnancy Center PHX Central
819 S. MacDonald
Mesa, AZ 85210
602726-2307
New Beginnings Center
111 E Frontier Street
Payson, AZ 85541
928-474-7466
Hope resource Center
1640 E. McDowell Road
Phoenix, AZ 85006
602-714-0999
Phoenix Women's Clinics
3516 W. McDowell Road
Phoenix, AZ 85009
602-870-3566
1st Way of Maricopa Cty
3501 N. 16th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85016
602-261-7522
New Life Pregnancy Center Rio Vista
1431 E. Southern Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85040
602-243-1614
7625 S. 24th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85042
480-966-1902
Alpha Pregnancy Counseling Center
3040 N. 7th Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85067
602-285-0050
Phoenix Women's Clinics
8326 N 7th St
Phoenix, AZ 85020
602-305-5100
Choices
1907 W. Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85015
602-368-4922
New Life Pregnancy Center Phoenix
2632 W. Augusta Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85017
602-346-2348
Life Connections Pregnancy Center
7875 E. Florentine Road
Prescott Valley, AZ 86314
928-227-3130
Living Hope Women's Centers
1901 E. Deuce of Clubs
Show Low, AZ 85901
928-537-9032
New Life Pregnancy Center
700 N. Central Ave
Show Low, AZ 85901
928-536-4760
Care Net Pregnancy Ctr of Cochise Cty
1197 E Fry Blvd
Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
520-459-5683
Aid to Women Center
1328 E. Apache Blvd
Tempe, AZ 85281
480-966-1902
New Life Pregnancy Center
1001 E. Southern Ave
Tempe, AZ 85282
480-838-9071
Answers for Life Pregnancy Center
627 N. Swan Road
Tucson, AZ 85711
520-900-3103
Answers for Life Pregnancy Center
503 W. Wetmore
Tucson, AZ 85705
520-901-0756
Reach Out Women's Center
2648 N. Campbell Ave
Tucson, AZ 85719
520-321-4300
Hands of Hope
5240 E. Knight Dr, Suite 122
Tucson, AZ 85731
520-622-5774
Answers for Life Pregnancy Center
2802 W. Mossman Road
Tucson, AZ 85746
520-901-0756
New Life Pregnancy Center
1525 S. Avenue C
Yuma, AZ 85365
928-726-5568
In Arizona, abortion, including the use of the abortion pill, is legal but with certain restrictions. Here are the main points to know about abortion laws in Arizona:
- Medication Abortion Availability: The abortion pill (mifepristone and misoprostol) can be used in Arizona up to 11 weeks of pregnancy.
- In-Person Requirement: Arizona requires an in-person consultation with a healthcare provider before obtaining the abortion pill. Telemedicine for prescribing the abortion pill is not permitted, so patients must visit a clinic in person.
- Waiting Period: Arizona has a mandatory 24-hour waiting period after the initial consultation before an abortion can be performed.
- Parental Consent: Minors seeking an abortion must have parental consent, though judicial bypass is an option if parental consent cannot be obtained.
- Current Legal Landscape: Arizona has conflicting laws and debates surrounding abortion regulations, but as of the latest updates, abortion remains legal up to 15 weeks.
Arizona is located in the southwestern United States, is known for its desert landscape, stunning natural landmarks, and vibrant cultural history. Arizona has a rich cultural heritage influenced by Native American, Mexican, and Western traditions, making it a unique blend of history and modernity. As of 2024, the population of Arizona is projected to be 7.359 million. Universities in Arizona include: The University of Arizona, Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and many other colleges and universities. The capital is Phoenix, Arizona.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Do I need an appointment?
Answer: Walk-ins are welcome. However, it is best to make an appointment to minimize your office wait time.
Question: What is the cost?
Answer: All services are free and confidential.
Question: What should I expect when I come for my visit?
Answer: Upon your arrival, a friendly receptionist will guide you to meet your client advocate. This advocate will offer you a judgment-free space to talk, followed by essential information and a pregnancy test. In the event of a positive test result, a dedicated medical professional will perform a limited ultrasound to verify the pregnancy's viability and estimate the age of the fetus.
Question: How long after sex does it take for a pregnancy test to work and how accurate is the test?
Answer: Pregnancy tests can be performed 7 to 10 days after conception. A client with a negative result may be invited to return within 2 weeks for a repeat test if she has not had her period.
If you have taken a home pregnancy test, you may want to confirm results with a laboratory-quality test at your local pregnancy center. These pregnancy tests detect HCg levels within 7 to 10 after conception.
Question: Will you tell anyone about my visit?
Answer: Pregnancy centers maintain a rigorous privacy and confidentiality policy. Clients' information is safeguarded against unauthorized disclosure, respecting their right to privacy, except in instances mandated by law. This includes situations necessary for public health, preventing harm to the client or others, or in specific circumstances where the use or disclosure of information is justified without prior consent, such as in cases of abuse reporting or suicide/homicide prevention.
Question: When should I schedule an appointment?
Answer: High-quality, medical-grade pregnancy tests are capable of detecting pregnancy from the first day after your initial missed period. We advise scheduling an appointment if you've missed a period, have any queries related to pregnancy, or suspect that you might be pregnant.
Question: How far along do I have to be to get a free ultrasound?
Answer: After an initial consultation with a client advocate, many pregnancy centers offer on-site ultrasound scans. These limited ultrasounds are conducted by a licensed nurse sonographer or a registered diagnostic medical sonographer (RDMS) and are subsequently reviewed by a licensed physician. The purpose of an ultrasound is to confirm the viability of the pregnancy and to establish the gestational age.
Question: I already know I'm pregnant and I want an abortion, what's next?
Answer: It is advisable to have an ultrasound to confirm the viability of your pregnancy and to ensure it is located within the uterus, as 20% to 25% of pregnancies end in miscarriage. Moreover, the ultrasound helps in determining the stage of your pregnancy, which is essential in making an informed decision about the type of abortion procedure you may consider. Many pregnancy centers offer a limited ultrasound free of charge.
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