There Are Many Ways to End a Pregnancy With Compassion
Your Birthing Options May Vary
The options available to you will depend on several factors, including your stage of pregnancy, healthcare provider, hospital policies, state laws, insurance coverage, and available community resources. While navigating these decisions can feel overwhelming, you do not have to do it alone. A bereavement doula, social worker, or other support professional may be able to provide guidance, emotional support, and advocacy throughout the process.
Access to Care
Not all healthcare providers offer every pregnancy management option. Depending on your circumstances, you may be referred to another provider or facility that can offer the care that best meets your needs.Availability of D&E Services
Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) services may only be available at certain facilities, particularly later in pregnancy. If you receive a diagnosis later in gestation, you may need to travel to access this option.Travel and Legal Considerations
Depending on where you live and how far along you are in your pregnancy, you may need to travel to another city or state to receive the care you choose. Abortion laws and access vary by state and can change over time, which may make navigating your options feel confusing or overwhelming.
There are state-specific and national organizations that can help you understand the laws where you live, locate care, and find support with travel, costs, lodging, and other practical needs.
Resources that may help:
Abortion Laws and Resources byState: AbortionFinder’s State-by-State Guide provides information about abortion laws and access in each state, along with resources that may help you navigate your options.
Find Abortion Care: AbortionFinder can help you locate verified abortion providers and identify resources for financial, travel, and logistical support.
There Are Many Ways to Give Birth
Medication: Medication can be taken by mouth or placed vaginally, either at home or in an outpatient setting, to help your uterus contract and begin the birth process. Cramping and bleeding are expectedand may range from heavy menstrual-like symptoms to labor contractions. Your care team can discuss pain management and support options with you.
Dilation and Curettage (D&C): A D&C is a procedure typically performed during the first trimester. It is usually done under anesthesia and involves gently opening the cervix and removing pregnancy tissue from the uterus. This option may be recommended based on gestational age, medical considerations, and personal preference.
Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): A D&E is a procedure commonly performed during the second trimester and may take place over several days. It is usually done under anesthesia and involves gently opening the cervix and removing pregnancy tissue from the uterus. Depending on gestational age and facility policies, some families may be able to request keepsakes such as handprints or footprints. Your care team can also discuss options for cremation, burial, or other memorial arrangements if desired.
Labor and delivery: Medication is given vaginally or through an IV to start contractions and labor. This option allows you to experience the birth process and may provide opportunities to spend time with your baby, create memories, and involve loved ones in ways that feel meaningful to you.
Hear Stories from our Community
Resources
Online resources
Ending a Wanted Pregnancy
TFMR Psychologist (with an international directory of providers)
Instagram accounts
TFMR Ireland
TFMR Mamas
TFMR Psychologist
TFMR Social Worker
TFMR Support Group
The TFMR Doula
Time to Talk TFMR
LMC Bereavement Support
Facebook groups
TFMR, A Loving Choice
TFMR Dad’s Group
The act of volunteering helped me heal from my own trauma by reshaping the need to bare my story as something that serves others–as well as RTZ HOPE’s mission–with people who might be too afraid to reach out for help.