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Abortion FAQs

Do I need a doctor’s referral or previous ultrasound to make an appointment?

No, you do not need a doctor’s referral or previous ultrasound to make an appointment. You can make the appointment on your own.

Do I need my partner’s permission?

No, you do not need your partner’s permission to make an appointment for an abortion. You are in charge of your own reproductive health.

Do I need my parents’ permission?

No, minors under the age of 18 do not need parental permission to receive abortion care in Minnesota.

Is there a legal waiting period before I can have my procedure?

No, there is no legal waiting period in Minnesota.

Is there a risk or association between abortion and breast/chest cancer?

Exhaustive studies have concluded that there is no association between abortion and breast/chest cancer, or other cancers.

Is there a risk or association between abortion and future mental health issues?

Repeated studies have been conducted and have concluded that abortion does not pose a hazard to mental health. Major B et al., Report of the Task Force on Mental Health and AbortionAmerican Psychological Association, Task Force on Mental Health and Abortion, 2008, Washington, DC, accessed April 19, 2010.

In fact, the largest study to examine individual’s experiences with abortion and unwanted pregnancy in the United States found serious consequences of being denied a wanted abortion on an individual’s health and wellbeing. For more information on this study please visit this link: The Turnaway Study

Will anyone find out I had an abortion?

Your WE Health Clinic visit is completely confidential. WE Health Clinic does not share your health records with anyone, including your primary physician or therapist, unless you choose to sign a Release of Information to share this information with other health care providers.

Federal HIPAA laws governing patient confidentiality bind WE Health Clinic. All of our staff and volunteers are bound by agency confidentiality agreements.

Can I bring someone with me?

For the safety of our patients and staff, guests, including children, are not allowed in the clinic, with the following exceptions:

  • Patients under the age of 18 may bring one adult support person.
  • Patients requiring translation services may bring one trusted guest to provide translations. Professional translation services are also available at no cost; please call the clinic for more information.
  • Those with disabilities requiring additional assistance may bring one guest or caregiver.

Is the procedure going to hurt?

Every patient’s pain tolerance is different. Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort and cramping, similar to menstrual cramps. WE Health Clinic staff will work with you beforehand to explain each step of the abortion process so you feel prepared for any discomfort. The in-clinic procedure is performed using local anesthesia (lidocaine) and lasts approximately 10 minutes. WE Health Clinic has Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) for patients to use during their procedure for pain and anxiety relief. Patients opting for the medication abortion leave with instructions and medication to aid them through completing the abortion process at home.

Is it possible to get pregnant after an abortion procedure?

Yes. You are able to become pregnant again following the procedure. WE Health Clinic recommends that you refrain from sexual intercourse for 1 week (7 days) following your procedure to allow for recovery and to prevent infection. When and if you do choose to have intercourse, and if you do not want to get pregnant, a method of birth control should be used to prevent pregnancy.

Will I be able to have children after an abortion, even if I’ve had more than one abortion?

Research indicates that having an abortion(s) will not affect your fertility or ability to have children in the future.

Abortion is one of the safest and most common medical procedures done in an outpatient setting. There is less than a 1% rate of complications. Your fertility is unaffected, with the exception of very rare complications.