Abortion Services ~ Support for Patients with a Diagnosed Fetal Anomaly
If you are ending a pregnancy because of a fetal anomaly or abnormality, we are sensitive to the fact that you may be experiencing profound grief when you are here. We are committed to providing you with excellent medical care and emotional support. We have a specialized program, designed in 1996, that safely and sensitively addresses your unique needs.
Making Your Appointment
When you call our appointment center, we will ask you the name of your referring physician or counselor as well as the name of the diagnosed abnormality. We will also ask if you and your physician want to have additional genetic testing of the fetal tissue following the termination. We must be notified of these arrangements prior to your appointment. We will explain our services and fees, and we will check with your insurance company regarding medical coverage.
Your First Appointment
A patient advocate will coordinate your services during your visits. She will meet you when you arrive and expedite your appointments to minimize waiting time (but please expect to be here for 2 to 4 hours for each of your visits). During your first visit you’ll have an ultrasound exam and a private information session with your patient advocate. Your significant other may accompany you during the whole appointment on this day.
The Procedure
On your second visit, you will have or begin your procedure, depending on how many weeks you are in your pregnancy. The physician will use the D&E (dilation and evacuation) method. Please see surgical abortion for more information on what happens.
A patient advocate will be with you during the entire process to help you feel comfortable. You can choose one of our pain relief options to help you relax. Afterwards, your patient advocate will escort you to the recovery room, where our nursing staff will monitor you for about 90 minutes, until you’re ready and OK to go home.
Afterwards
Your patient advocate will help you find information and support resources for couples experiencing a loss resulting from a fetal problem. A nurse is available around the clock if you have any medical concerns.
Questions?
To learn more about our program for pregnancy termination for fetal abnormalities, you can talk to our appointment center at 216.991.4000 or toll free 1.877.PRETERM (773.8376).
