Abortion

Desert Star Institute for Family Planning

Gynecologist & Family Planning located in Phoenix, AZ

If you have an unwanted pregnancy, you can explore your options with DeShawn Taylor, MD, MSc, FACOG, at Desert Star Family Planning, in Phoenix. Dr. Taylor offers a full range of family planning services, including abortion, in a safe and judgment-free environment. She can answer your questions so you can make the best choice for your needs. Call Desert Star Family Planning or schedule a consultation online today.

480-447-8857

Abortion Q & A

What is an abortion?

Abortion is a safe and common procedure to remove a pregnancy from your uterus. In most cases, abortion services are outpatient procedures, although after 16 weeks, the termination takes two days.

What happens during a surgical abortion?

During a surgical abortion, Dr. Taylor uses medical instruments and a device that uses gentle suction to remove the pregnancy from your uterus.

If your pregnancy has progressed past 16 weeks, Dr. Taylor may use laminaria (cervical dilators) or misoprostol to open your cervix. Most women describe the procedure as feeling like menstrual cramps. Dr. Taylor also offers twilight sedation for surgical abortion procedures.

When can I have an abortion?

Desert Star Institute for Family Planning provides abortions up until 15 weeks of pregnancy. You can request an abortion as soon as you find out that you’re pregnant.

Arizona state law requires that you have a consultation with a physician, have an ultrasound, and listen to a state-mandated script of information 24 hours before your procedure.

If you’re under the age of 18, your parent or guardian needs to sign a notarized consent form or you must get permission from a superior court judge in a process called Judicial Bypass.

What should I expect after a surgical abortion?

You may experience some cramping and bleeding after your procedure and should prepare to sleep and relax when you go home. You can take ibuprofen or use a heating pad to relieve cramping, but don’t take aspirin as it can increase your bleeding.

You will need to wear maxi pads and avoid using tampons or having sex for at least a week after your abortion. You should also avoid strenuous activity for several days.

How much does a surgical abortion cost?

Desert Star Institute for Family Planning accepts most insurance plans and offers a competitive pricing scale if you pay for your abortion services yourself. The cost of the procedure depends on how many weeks pregnant you are.