Arkansas Abortion Safety Checklist
Abortion Safety
Your health and well-being are paramount. Your local Arkansas 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 Arkansas 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 Arkansas 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.
Arkansas Pregnancy Centers
Arkansas pregnancy centers are located in all major cities including Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff, Bentonville, and even many smaller cities.
Most Arkansas pregnancy centers listed offer free and confidential services including medical grade pregnancy tests and ultrasound exams.
702 Carpenter St.
Arkadelphia, AR 71923
870-210-5353
Alpha Center
194 W. Main St
Batesville, AR 72501
870-698-1006
Options Pregnancy Center
400 W. Center St
Beebe, AR 72012
501-393-5329
New Beginnings PRC
120 S. Conrad Street
Benton, AR 72015
501-315-5557
The Cradle
213 Hailey Road
Berryville, AR 72616
870-423-4357
Options Pregnancy Center
401 S. 2nd Street
Cabot, AR 72023
601-236-5926
Hannah Pregnancy Resource Center
126 E Washington St
Camden, AR 71701
870-231-9799
Clarksville Pregnancy Help Clinic
102 N. Johnson Street
Clarksville, AR 72830
479-754-7474
Life Choices
1330 S. Donaghey
Conway, AR 72034
501-329-4944
Life Choices Pregnancy Care Ctr
111 Pine Street
Crossett, AR 71635
870-364-1155
Hannah Pregnancy Resource Center
101 W. Main St. Ste. 201
El Dorado, AR 71730
870-862-1317
1st Choice Pregnancy Medical Center
4622 Grand Avenue
Fort Smith, AR 72913
479-484-5244
Heart-to-Heart Pregnancy Support Center
417 S. 16th Street
Fort Smith, AR 72901
479-452-2260
Arkansas Pregnancy Crisis Center
715 W Sherman
Harrison, AR 72653
870-424-4673
New Beginnings Pregnancy Help Ctr
1438 Hw 62
Highland, AR 72512
870-994-5433
Change Point Center
201 Nickels St
Hot Springs, AR 71913
501-624-2273
Options Pregnancy Center
1409 Madden Rd
Jacksonville, AR 72076
870-862-1317
910 S. Main Street
Jonesboro, AR 72401
870-932-6644
Caring Hearts Pregnancy Center
1515 Aldersgate Dr
Little Rock, AR 72205
501-500-2055
Arkansas Pregnancy Resource Center
2 Office Park Dr Ste. 102
Little Rock, AR 72211
501-227-4357
Hannah Pregnancy Resource Center
216 Union St
Magnolia, AR 71730
870-234-8070
Hope Place Arkansas
224 N. Main
Monticello, AR 71655
870 460-0067
Informed Choices Women’s Center of the Ozarks
312 E. 3rd Street
Mountain Home, AR 72653
870-424-4673
Hope's Place
2000 McLain St, Bldg 1, Suite B
Newport, AR 72112
870-217-0672
Caring Hearts Pregnancy Center
2003 Fendley Dr
North Little Rock, AR 72115
501-753-4038
Options Pregnancy Center
909 Reynolds Road
Paragould, AR 72450
670-932-5544
HOPE of the Delta
3905 S. Hazel
Pine Bluff, AR 71613
870-535-0811
Loving Choices Pregnancy Center
3610 W. Southern Hills Blvd Suite B
Rogers, AR 72758
479-631-5951
Choice Care
911 W. B Street
Russellville, AR 72801
479-967-2255
FFL Pregnancy Medical Center
914 E Race Ave
Searcy, AR 72143
501-305-4500
FFL Pregnancy Medical Center
405 N. Walnut
Searcy, AR 72143
501 279-1550
Choices Pregnancy Services
809 S. Mt Olive St
Siloam Springs, AR 72761
479 549-3322
Hope of the Delta
2009 N. Buerkie St
Stuttgart, AR 72160
870 461-0908
In Arkansas, abortion, including the use of the abortion pill, is effectively banned with very limited exceptions. Here are the key points about Arkansas’s abortion laws:
- Total Abortion Ban: Arkansas enforces a near-total ban on abortion, which applies to both surgical and medication abortions (the abortion pill). This includes all stages of pregnancy.
- Exceptions: The only exception to the ban is in cases where the mother’s life is in danger due to a medical emergency. There are no exceptions for cases of rape or incest.
- Telemedicine and Abortion Pills: Arkansas prohibits telemedicine consultations for abortion services. The abortion pill cannot be legally prescribed or dispensed for terminating pregnancies within the state.
- Penalties for Providers: Healthcare providers who perform abortions outside the allowed exception face severe penalties, including felony charges. However, there are no legal penalties for individuals who seek or undergo an abortion.
Arkansas is located in the southern United States and is known for its diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers. Arkansas has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The state is often referred to as "The Natural State" due to its abundant outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating, particularly in the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains. As of 2022, the population of Arkansas is projected to be 3.046 million. Universities in Arkansas include: The University of Arkansas, Arkansas State University, University of Central Arkansas, and many other colleges and universities. The capital is Little Rock, Arkansas.
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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