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Safe, Compassionate Care

Both medication and aspiration abortions are offered at Planned Parenthood of Western Washington. Procedures are performed in a caring, confidential manner by experienced physicians and nurse practitioners. Medication abortion, using mifepristone (Mifeprex or RU-486), is available to women as early as a pregnancy can be confirmed up to 8 weeks (or 56 days) after the last menstrual period begins.
Aspiration abortion is available to women who are between 5 and 13 weeks 6 days pregnant as determined by the first day of their last menstrual period. Before all procedures women meet with trained staff to discuss all pregnancy options, concerns, and the abortion procedure. A clinician reviews the medical history and along with the woman decides on the most appropriate contraceptive method to use after the abortion.

Pelvic ultrasounds are provided for all women.

Lab testing including pregnancy testing, Rh factor, anemia screening, and chlamydia and gonorrhea tests may be done prior to the procedure.

Medication Abortion

Medication abortion using mifepristone is available to women who are less than 8 weeks pregnant (as early as a pregnancy can be confirmed up to 8 weeks [or 56 days] after the last menstrual period begins), speak English or have an interpreter available, 18 years of age or older, have an adult present or available during the first 24 hours, and have access to reliable transportation. Two appointments are required. The medication abortion is accomplished by taking a combination of two medications. The first medication is taken orally at the clinic. The second is administered 24-48 hours later at home or in the clinic. Women may experience nausea, vomiting, strong cramps and heavy bleeding after taking these medications. The actual abortion process may occur from 1 hour to several weeks after taking the second medication. The medication abortion results in a successful termination for 92 - 97% of women who choose this option. Women must agree to have an aspiration abortion if the medication abortion is not successful.

Aspiration Abortion

Aspiration abortion is available for women who are less than 14 weeks pregnant from the beginning of their last menstrual period. This is a one day procedure for most people. Medication for relaxation is offered to all women. The aspiration procedure involves cleansing the vagina with an antibacterial soap, numbing the cervix and emptying the uterus by a gentle suction method. The procedure takes 5 - 10 minutes. Most women feel pain similar to menstrual cramps during the procedure. After the procedure women rest in the recovery room for 20 minutes where information regarding after care is provided. A 24-hour emergency phone number is provided to all women. Women are encouraged to relax and if they have had pain medications to not drive a car for the rest of the day. Most return to work or other normal activities the next day. A three week follow-up appointment is encouraged.