Iowa abortion safety checklist.

Iowa Abortion Safety Checklist

Iowa abortion safety checklist.

Abortion Safety

Your health and well-being are paramount. Your local Iowa 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 Iowa 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 Iowa 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. 

Iowa Pregnancy Centers

Iowa pregnancy centers are located in all major cities including Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, Sioux City, Iowa City, Waterloo, Council Bluffs, Ames, West Des Moines, Dubuque, and even many smaller cities.

Most Iowa pregnancy centers listed offer free and confidential services including medical grade pregnancy tests and ultrasound exams.

Obria Medical Clinic
1606 Golden Aspen Dr, Suite 105
Ames, IA 50010
515-620-5892

Alpha Women's Center
114 SW State St
Ankeny, IA 50320
515-965-7885

Women's Choice Center
2740 Happy Joe Drive
Bettendorf, IA 52722
563-332-0475

Informed Choices Medical Clinic
1013 S. Central Avenue
Burlington, IA 52601
319-208-9445

Alternatives Pregnancy Center
2016 Campus Street
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
319-535-2720

Bridgehaven Pregnancy Support Center
4250 Glass Road NE Suite 100
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
319-364-8967

The Pregnancy Center
240 N Bluff Blvd Ste 105
Clinton, IA 52732
563-242-6628

Gabriel's Corner Pregnancy Center
131 S. 16th Street
Council Bluffs, IA 51502
712-318-1971

Pregnancy Resources
2706 W Central Park
Davenport, IA 52804
563-386-3737

Agape Pregnancy Clinic
2550 ML King Jr. Pkway
Des Moines, IA 50310
515-255-0243

Alpha Women's Center
3605 Southeast 14th Street
Des Moines, IA 50320
515-285-5700

Alternatives Pregnancy Center
2720 Merie Hay Rd
Des Moines, IA 60310
319-535-2720

InnerVisions Healthcare South
500 Army Post Road, Suite 100
Des Moines, IA 50315
515-440-2273

Clarity Clinic
3365 Hillcrest Rd
Dubuque, IA 52002
563-556-5250

Alternatives Pregnancy Center
2006 12th Ave, Lot 57
Eldora, IA 50627
319-535-2720

Cradle of Hope
1700 S. Main Street
Fairfield, IA 52556
319-931-5759

Cradle of Hope
3421 Avenue L
Fort Madison, IA 52627
319-931-5759

Agape Pregnancy Center
1700 W. 2nd Avenue
Indianola, IA 60125
515-255-0243

Informed Choices Medical Clinic
821 S. Gilbert St.
Iowa City, IA 52244
319-358-1000

The Lighthouse Center of Hope
409 Washington Ave
Iowa Falls, IA 50126
641-648-4198

Her Health Women's Center
25 Plymouth Street W
Le Mars, IA 51031
712-224-2000

Caring Pregnancy Center
830 15th St SW Suite 1
Mason City, IA 50401
641-424-2237

Pregnancy Resources
3825 16th Street
Moline, IA 61265
309-797-3636

Cradle of Hope
1400 E. Washington Street
Mt. Pleasant, IA 52641
319-986-5336

Pregnancy Center of Central Iowa
709 1st Ave W Ste 1
Newton, IA 50208
641-792-3050

Heartland Pregnancy Center
101 S Market St Ste 302
Ottumwa, IA 52501
641-683-3030

Pregnancy Care Center of Pella
1402 Washington Street
Pella, IA 50219
641-780-6075

Pregnancy Center of SW Iowa
101 E Reed Street
Red Oak, IA 51566
712-621-2117

Her Health Women's Center
5732 Sunnybrook Drive
Sioux City, IA 51106
712-224-2000

Mary's Choice
4415 Stone Ave
Sioux City, IA 51102
712-274-6279

Cornerstone for Life PRC
800 Oneida St, Suite 4
Storm Lake, IA 50588
712-299-1707

Alternatives Pregnancy Center
1006 Decathlon Dr
Waterloo, IA 50701
319-535-2720

Alternatives Pregnancy Center
215 3rd St NW
Waverly, IA 50677
319-535-2720

Iowa is located in the Midwestern United States and is known for its fertile farmland, picturesque landscapes, and strong agricultural industry. Iowa's geography includes rolling plains, river valleys, and a climate with hot summers and cold winters. As of 2022, the population of Iowa is projected to be 3.201 million. Universities in Iowa include: University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and many other colleges and universities. The capital is Des Moines, Iowa

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.

Client Reviews

from clients like you!

Pregnancy center review 2.

Me and My Partner’s Experience Was Excellent!

"Our experience with them was excellent! Their response time is superb, calling the same day. They are very kind and they served the highest quality of their medical promise, not to mention it all being free. We were shown many resources that needy couples do not easily find. The environment is very home-like providing a space which is comfortable. The sonographers are down-to-earth and engage in comforting conversation before, during and after the sonogram. They are willing to keep in touch with you, and they will refer you to their extended team if you need help (i.e., free clinics, abortion references, insurance). I recommend pregnancy centers 100%, and if you are a woman or a couple which needs help, there isn't a better place to go. This team is not here to make a buck out of you: they care about you and will go above and beyond to do all they can to help you." Lamyka
Pregnancy center review 4.

Very Professional and Clean Environment.

"I will definitely recommend them. They speak both English and Spanish to help those who don’t understand English all that well. Took a friend there who believed she was pregnant and with their help she found out she was. Thank you so much." Stella
Pregnancy center review 6.

A HUGE Blessing.

"The times I have interacted with our local pregnancy center have always proved to be a great experience. The work they do not only to help women in times of need with heartfelt compassion, but after that with assisting them with material goods such as diapers, car seats, etc. is awesome. Their devotion to helping women is truly inspiring." Theresa
Pregnancy center review 3.

These Ladies Deserve a 10 star Review!!!

"My experience was beautiful. The atmosphere was just what I needed. My husband and I found them on Google, and we decided to visit them after reviewing the amazing reviews. I must say they were very professional and caring. This is not your regular sonography center; they take their time to go through the entire process with you with so much love and care for FREE. May God continue to empower you ladies to keep up the great work you all are doing for the community to help all women. God bless you ladies!" Kayla
Pregnancy center review 1.

I Had a Wonderful Experience.

"I was nervous and had many questions before I got there. I was educated on what to expect and was given a lot of useful information. This experience made my husband and I feel so much better we are excited about our new journey as parents. I would highly recommend this company and their wonderful staff to guide you on your journey. The ultrasound went smoothly and the ladies here are incredibly kind and wonderful people. I was so excited to see our ultrasound. Definitely would recommend to all women that are looking confidential, smooth, wonderful experience. I am extremely grateful for their kindness, professionalism, and their care." Alisha
Pregnancy center review 5.

Excellent Facility.

"Was recommended to me while I was going through a difficult time during my pregnancy and has just lost my job. They helped me with counseling, bible studies, support and lots of things for me and my baby. I am very grateful to have found them and all the help they have provided to me and my children." Angelina

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