Abortion Services
Founded in 1971, CHOICES was one of the first providers of
abortion services in the country. Today, as a leading
provider, we remain sensitive to the profound personal nature and
experience of today's issues, and our counselors are specially trained to
facilitate the process.
CHOICES provides first (up to 12 weeks gestation) and
second trimester (from 12.1 to 24 weeks) abortion services. Patients may choose either local or general anesthesia. They
receive individualized counseling that includes birth control information,
lab work (pregnancy tests, urine analysis, blood work, VD testing), and
sonography. A laminaria insertion (natural dilators) may be required to
help dilate the cervix. After the procedure, patients may make an
appointment for a post abortion examination at CHOICES. On the day of your
appointment you will be meeting with a female counselor, trained in women's
health and psychology. She will answer all your questions about abortions,
and discuss any personal issues you may have surrounding your decision.
During this time you will also have an opportunity to discuss birth control
issues, and sign consent forms detailing the medical services.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Abortion:
 Can my spouse / partner / family member
stay with me through the whole procedure?
We encourage your spouse / partner / family member to join you in the
counseling session where all your questions and concerns will be addressed.
Our supportive, caring staff will remain with you throughout the day
assisting you in every way possible. The waiting area is available for
your spouse / partner / family member, since only medical personnel are
allowed in the surgical areas.
Is is dangerous
to have an abortion?
Statistically, it is nine times more dangerous to go through childbirth.
Abortion is the safest outpatient procedure there is. Of course, all
medical procedures carry some risks. These will be carefully reviewed with
you during your counseling session.
What is the difference between
local
and general anesthesia?
The administration of local anesthesia will serve to numb the cervix.
You will feel some discomfort, like bad period cramps, during the time of
actual abortion. If you choose general anesthesia, our anesthesiologist
will administer Brevitol through an IV which will put you to sleep. When
you awake, you may experience some discomfort as the uterus contracts.
Will having an abortion affect my
ability to have children in the future?
At this point, there is no specific research linking abortion with
sterility.
CHOICES serves women of all ages in strictest
confidence.
Parental or spousal consent is never required.
Medicaid / all insurance accepted.
CHOICES WOMEN'S MEDICAL CENTER
29-28 41st Avenue / Long Island City, NY 11101-3303
Administration: 718-349-9100 / Fax: 718-349-9458
Patient Calls: 718-786-5000 or 718-SAY-CARE / NY Metro Area
800-421-7079 / Outside NY Metro Area
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©1998 Choices Women's Medical Center. Web site by Sara Yager @ SY/Co. Video, NYC.
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