Considering Abortion?

Get the facts first. No cost. No pressure. No judgment.

Before making a decision, it’s important to have complete and accurate medical information. At PRC Grand Rapids, we provide free, confidential abortion education and pregnancy services so you can move forward with clarity.

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What You Need to Know About Abortion

If you’re thinking about abortion, having complete medical information is essential. Understanding the types of procedures, potential risks, and the specific details about your pregnancy will help you make the decision that’s right for you.

Medication Abortion

(The Abortion Pill)

Medication abortion uses two different drugs taken 24–48 hours apart. The first blocks progesterone, a hormone needed for the pregnancy to continue. The second causes the uterus to contract and empty.

Key facts:

  • Available within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy
  • Gestational age is typically confirmed by ultrasound
  • Side effects can include heavy bleeding, cramping, nausea, and fever
  • A follow-up visit is recommended to confirm completion

Surgical Abortion

(In-Clinic Procedure)

Surgical abortions are in-clinic procedures performed by a physician. The specific type of procedure depends on how far along the pregnancy is.

Key facts:

  • Typically performed after 10 weeks of pregnancy
  • Requires an in-person clinical visit
  • Potential risks include infection, heavy bleeding, and damage to the cervix or uterus
  • Recovery time varies by individual and procedure type

How the Abortion Pill Works

The abortion pill (medication abortion) is a two-drug process approved by the FDA for pregnancies up to 10 weeks (70 days) from the last menstrual period. Here’s what the process involves:

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Step 1: Confirm Your Pregnancy

Before considering any abortion method, it is highly recommended that you confirm the pregnancy with an ultrasound. This determines gestational age, viability, and rules out an ectopic pregnancy. This step is essential for your safety — and it's free at PRC Grand Rapids.

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Step 2: Mifepristone (First Pill)

The first medication, mifepristone, blocks progesterone — a hormone the pregnancy needs to continue. Without progesterone, the embryo detaches from the uterine lining. This pill is typically taken at a clinic or provider's office.

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Step 3: Misoprostol (Second Pill, 24–48 Hours Later)

The second medication, misoprostol, is taken at home 24 – 48 hours after the first pill. It causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy. Most women experience heavy bleeding and cramping during this stage, which can last several hours.

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Step 4: Follow-Up Care

A follow-up appointment is recommended within 1–2 weeks to confirm the abortion is complete. In some cases, the medication does not fully work, and a surgical procedure may be needed to remove remaining tissue. Monitoring for complications is important during this period.

Important: Taking the abortion pill without confirming gestational age and pregnancy location can pose serious health risks. An ultrasound is the only way to get this information.

Risks and Side Effects

Like any medical procedure, abortion carries potential risks and side effects. Understanding these helps you make an informed decision about your health.

Common Side Effects

  • Heavy bleeding and blood clots
  • Severe cramping and abdominal pain
  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  • Fever and chills (typically within 24 hours)
  • Headache and dizziness
  • Fatigue lasting several days

Potential Risks & Complications

  • Incomplete abortion (requiring surgical follow-up)
  • Infection of the uterus
  • Undetected ectopic pregnancy (life-threatening if untreated)
  • Heavy or prolonged bleeding requiring medical attention
  • Allergic reaction to the medications
  • Emotional or psychological effects

When to Seek Emergency Care

After any abortion procedure, seek immediate medical attention if you experience: soaking through two or more pads per hour for two consecutive hours, fever lasting more than 24 hours, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or severe abdominal pain that doesn’t improve with medication. Receiving care for abortion-related complications is never illegal in Michigan.

Have Questions? Talk to Someone Who Can Help.

Our medical staff can answer your questions about abortion procedures, risks, and your specific pregnancy. No pressure, no judgment — just honest information.

Why an Ultrasound Matters Before Any Decision

Getting an ultrasound before making any pregnancy decision is medically recommended. At PRC Grand Rapids, ultrasounds are always free.

Confirm Gestational Age

Different abortion procedures are available at different stages. An ultrasound tells you exactly how far along you are, which directly affects your options.

Check Viability

Up to 20% of early pregnancies end in miscarriage naturally. An ultrasound can determine if the pregnancy is viable before you pay for a procedure you may not need.

Rule Out Ectopic Pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy develops outside the uterus and can be life-threatening. The abortion pill will not resolve an ectopic pregnancy and could put your health at serious risk.

Abortion Laws in Michigan

Understanding the legal landscape helps you plan your next steps.

Current Michigan Law

Abortion is a protected constitutional right in Michigan and is legal throughout pregnancy. While the state may regulate care after fetal viability, exceptions are always made to protect the life or the physical and mental health of the patient. Michigan does not require a mandatory waiting period, and parental consent is not required for individuals age 18 and older.

Laws are subject to change. It is important to verify the most current regulations with a qualified medical provider.

What This Means for You

Because abortion is legal in Michigan, you have time to gather information and make a thoughtful decision. There is no need to rush.

Before scheduling any procedure, we recommend confirming your pregnancy with a medical-grade test and ultrasound. This gives you accurate information about gestational age, which directly impacts what options are available to you.

All of these services are free at PRC Grand Rapids.

Abortion Costs & Eligibility

Financial concerns are a real part of this decision. Here’s what you should know about costs in the Grand Rapids area.

What Abortion Typically Costs

Abortion costs vary based on the type of procedure, how far along the pregnancy is, the provider, and whether complications arise.

Medication abortion: $300–$800+

Surgical abortion (first trimester): $600–$2,000+

Second trimester procedures: $1,500–$4,000+

These estimates typically do not include additional costs for pre-procedure screening, follow-up visits, medications for complications, or emergency care if needed.

What PRC Grand Rapids Provides For Free

Before spending money on any procedure, get the medical information you need — at no cost:

  • Lab-quality pregnancy testing — confirms whether you are pregnant
  • Ultrasound — confirms gestational age, viability, and location
  • Options consultation — factual information on all your choices
  • Community resource referrals — housing, insurance, medical care

We never bill insurance, and we never charge. These services are always free.

Eligibility for Medication Abortion

Not everyone is eligible for the abortion pill. Your eligibility depends on several factors that can only be confirmed through medical screening:

You May Be Eligible If:

  • You are within 10 weeks (70 days) from your last menstrual period
  • Your pregnancy is confirmed viable and located in the uterus
  • You have no contraindicated medical conditions
  • You have access to follow-up care and emergency services

You May Not Be Eligible If:

  • You are more than 10 weeks pregnant
  • You have an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus)
  • You have certain bleeding disorders or are on blood thinners
  • You have an IUD currently in place
  • You have certain adrenal gland conditions

What We Provide — Always Free

PRC Grand Rapids provides the medical information and services you need to make a fully informed decision about your pregnancy. We never charge for our services, and we never bill your insurance.

Lab-Quality Pregnancy Testing

Administered by licensed medical staff with results you can trust.

Pregnancy Ultrasound

Confirms gestational age, viability, and location of the pregnancy.

Abortion Education

Accurate, fact-based information on all abortion types, risks, and processes.

Pre-Abortion Screening

Help identify medical risks, confirm pregnancy details, and detect conditions.

Options Consultation

A non-judgmental conversation about all your pregnancy options.

Ongoing Support & Resources

Community referrals, parenting support, adoption information, and more.

Understanding All Your Options

You have three pregnancy options. Each one is valid, and each one is your choice to make.

Parenting

PRC Grand Rapids offers parenting classes, material support (diapers, baby supplies, clothing), community resource connections, and ongoing advocacy to help you feel equipped and supported.

We can also connect you with resources for housing, childcare, Medicaid enrollment, education, and employment.

Adoption

Adoption allows you to provide your child with a loving home while making a plan that works for your life. You choose the terms — open adoption (continued contact) or closed adoption (no contact). You select the family.

PRC Grand Rapids partners with trusted adoption agencies and can walk you through the process, your legal rights, and what to expect.

Abortion

If you are considering abortion, PRC Grand Rapids provides accurate, medical information about all abortion types, including medication and surgical procedures, risks, side effects, and what to expect.

We do not perform or refer for abortions, but we do ensure you have the complete medical picture — including a free ultrasound before you make your decision.

Changed Your Mind After Taking the First Pill?

If you’ve taken the first abortion pill (mifepristone) and changed your mind, do not take the second pill. It may still be possible to continue your pregnancy. Time is critical.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I’m eligible for the abortion pill?

Eligibility depends on gestational age, pregnancy location, and your medical history. The only way to confirm eligibility is through a medical screening that includes an ultrasound. PRC Grand Rapids offers this at no cost.

Is it safe to order abortion pills online?

Ordering abortion pills online without a medical screening carries real risks. Without confirming gestational age, pregnancy location, and ruling out ectopic pregnancy, you could face serious health complications. An in-person evaluation is always recommended.

How far along am I?

Gestational age is measured from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP), not from when you think conception occurred. An ultrasound is the most accurate way to determine how far along you are. We provide free ultrasounds at PRC Grand Rapids.

Does PRC Grand Rapids perform abortions?

No. We do not perform or refer for abortion services. We provide accurate, fact-based medical information about all abortion types so you can make a fully informed decision. We also provide free pregnancy testing and ultrasounds .

Will anyone find out about my visit?

No. All services at PRC Grand Rapids are completely confidential. We do not bill insurance, contact family members, or notify schools or employers. Your privacy is protected.

What if I’ve already had an abortion?

PRC Grand Rapids offers post-abortion support including emotional support, medical referrals, and recovery resources. If you are experiencing physical complications or need someone to talk to, contact us. There is no judgment here.

What Our Clients Say

“I called freaking out pregnant and wanting to seek an abortion and this girl on the phone helped me calm down. She really took the time out of her day to listen to my concerns. I just really don’t know what I would have done if she hadn’t consoled me the way she had.”

“PRC of Grand Rapids wraps their arms around people in a loving and nonjudgmental way — they are a wonderful resource for the community that offers free ultrasounds and other medical services plus education and family support programs.”

“Highly qualified medical staff. Licensed nurses as well as registered sonographers to provide care and ultrasounds at the same level as a physician’s office. Caring staff that provides judgment-free answers and information.”

You Deserve Complete Information Before You Decide.

Schedule a free, confidential appointment. We’ll answer your questions, provide medical-grade pregnancy testing, and help you understand your options — on your terms.

Schedule Now

PRC Grand Rapids does not perform or refer for abortion services. We provide accurate, fact-based medical information so you can make an informed decision. All services are confidential. This website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care.

Our office hours will vary over the holidays, please contact our scheduling line at 616-456-6873