If you are considering abortion, it is important to understand both the legal landscape in Arkansas and the medical information related to your pregnancy.

Abortion is currently prohibited in Arkansas except in limited circumstances when a physician determines it is necessary to protect the life of the mother. Because of this, some women consider traveling out of state or obtaining abortion pills online.

Before making any pregnancy decision, it is important to confirm three things:

• Is the pregnancy located in the uterus?
  
• Is the pregnancy viable?
  
• How far along are you?

WHY AN ULTRASOUND MATTERS

A positive pregnancy test alone cannot answer these questions.

A limited ultrasound can help determine:

• Whether the pregnancy appears viable
  
• How far along the pregnancy is
  
• Whether there are signs of an ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in a fallopian tube. This is a potentially life-threatening medical condition that requires immediate medical treatment.

Because abortion pills do not treat ectopic pregnancies, an ultrasound can provide important information before making a pregnancy decision.

THE ABORTION PILL

The abortion pill (also called medication abortion) generally involves two medications taken during early pregnancy.

The first medication blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary to support the pregnancy. The second medication causes cramping and bleeding that expels the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.

Medication abortion is typically used during the first trimester of pregnancy. Determining how far along you are is important because effectiveness and risks may vary depending on gestational age.

POSSIBLE RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS

Women considering medication abortion should understand potential risks and side effects, which may include:

• Heavy bleeding
  
•  Severe cramping
  
•  Nausea or vomiting
  
•  Diarrhea
  
•  Headache
  
•  Fever or chills
  
•  Incomplete abortion requiring additional medical treatment
  
•  Infection
  
•  Emergency medical care in rare cases

Every woman’s situation is different. Understanding your pregnancy and discussing your medical history with a healthcare professional can help you make an informed decision.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

The Clarksville Pregnancy Help Clinic provides:

• Free pregnancy tests
• Limited ultrasounds
• Pregnancy education
• Information about pregnancy options
• Community referrals and resources

Our goal is to provide accurate information and compassionate support so you can make an informed decision about your pregnancy.