Abortion | Thrive Metro East

Abortion in Illinois

What You Need to Know Before Making a Decision

Searching for abortion information online can be overwhelming. With so much conflicting content and unclear laws—especially in Illinois—it’s hard to know who to trust. That’s why ThriVe® Metro East is here to provide accurate, medically-reviewed information and support from licensed professionals, not opinions or pressure.

If you're considering abortion, it’s important to take these first steps to protect your health and make an informed decision.

✅ Your First Steps at ThriVe®

Before any pregnancy decision, including abortion, it's essential to get the full picture:

1. Confirm the Pregnancy

We offer lab-quality pregnancy testing administered by licensed medical staff. You'll receive your results during your appointment—no waiting, no guessing.

2. Check for Pregnancy Viability

Up to 1 in 4 pregnancies may end in natural miscarriage. A limited OB ultrasound can confirm whether your pregnancy is viable (developing as expected) and located in the uterus. This can help prevent undergoing a procedure you may not need. If an ectopic or high-risk condition is suspected, we’ll refer you to a specialist.

3. Get Tested for STIs

Having an active STI at the time of an abortion can lead to serious complications, including infection and long-term reproductive damage. ThriVe® offers confidential STI testing and treatment so you can protect your health before making any decision.

🩺 What to Expect at ThriVe® Metro East

When you come in for a Pre-Abortion Screening, you’ll receive:

✔️ Lab-quality pregnancy test and same-day results
✔️ Limited OB ultrasound (if test is positive)
✔️ STI testing (Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, HIV, and more)
✔️ Education on abortion procedures, side effects, and health risks
✔️ A supportive, pressure-free environment to ask questions and explore your options

📚 Understanding Abortion Procedures

Here’s a general overview of abortion methods by trimester:

1st Trimester (up to 13 weeks)

Abortion Pill (RU-486) – Taken between 4 to 10 weeks after your last period. Not the same as the Morning After Pill.
Suction Curettage – Manual or electric vacuum aspiration up to 13 weeks.

2nd Trimester (13 weeks and up)

Dilation & Evacuation (D&E) – Typically performed between 13–24 weeks.

3rd Trimester (24 weeks to full term)

Late-Term D&E – A more complex procedure performed in rare cases, based on state laws and provider availability.

What is the Abortion Pill? (Medical Abortion)

What You Need to Know Before You Decide

If you're considering the abortion pill, you're likely facing a big decision—and you deserve accurate, judgment-free information. At ThriVe® Metro East, we’re here to help you understand how medical abortion works, what risks may be involved, and what steps to take before you decide.

💊 What Is the Abortion Pill?

The abortion pill is actually a series of two medications taken in separate doses to end a pregnancy. It’s often referred to as:

At-home abortion
Medication abortion
Medical or chemical abortion
Missed period pills
10-week pills
Self-managed abortion

Important: The abortion pill is not the same as Plan B or the morning-after pill (emergency contraception).

🩺 Is the Abortion Pill Safe for Everyone?

Medical abortion is not safe or recommended for everyone. It may not be an option if:

You have certain medical conditions (like bleeding disorders or adrenal failure)
Your pregnancy is not viable (has no heartbeat)
The pregnancy is located outside the uterus (ectopic pregnancy)

Before taking the abortion pill, it’s essential to confirm how far along you are and rule out serious health concerns through an ultrasound.

⚠️ Possible Side Effects and Risks

Everyone reacts differently to the abortion pill. Some common and serious side effects include:

Cramping and uterine contractions
Heavy bleeding and blood clots
Fever and chills
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Headaches or abdominal pain
Infection or allergic reaction
In rare cases, hospitalization or death

📋 A pregnancy confirmation appointment and ultrasound can help you avoid complications by determining viability, gestational age, and pregnancy location.

💬 How ThriVe® Can Help

We offer free pre-abortion screenings, including:

✔️ Lab-quality pregnancy testing
✔️ Limited OB ultrasound
✔️ STI testing
✔️ Options education with medically accurate info on abortion, adoption, and parenting
✔️ A safe space to ask questions without pressure

🔄 What If I Change My Mind?

If you’ve taken the first dose of the abortion pill (mifepristone) and are having second thoughts, abortion pill reversal may be possible—but timing is critical.

Contact ThriVe® immediately during business hours
Or reach out to the Abortion Pill Reversal Network 24/7 at abortionpillreversal.com or call 877-558-0333

ThriVe® Metro East does not provide or refer for abortion services. Our goal is to equip you with the medical facts, support, and clarity you need to make a confident, informed choice.

💬 Need Help Understanding Illinois Abortion Laws?

Illinois laws can be confusing, but you don't have to navigate them alone. ThriVe® Metro East will help you understand your rights, risks, and what’s medically accurate—so you can move forward with confidence.

📞 Let’s Talk—No Cost, No Pressure

We’re here to equip you with the facts and support you need to make the best decision for your health and future.

📅 Schedule your free Pre-Abortion Screening today »
📞 Call us at (618) 466-1690

Note: ThriVe® Metro East does not perform or refer for abortions. We provide medically accurate education and health screenings to empower you with informed choices.