As recommended by the World Health Organization,
the following services are encouraged before
having an abortion performed:
In addition to confirming a viable pregnancy and estimating the gestational age of the fetus, our team of medical professionals works to help you identify contraindications to abortion methods provided in the state of Georgia and to identify potential risk factors for complications.
Our goal is for you to be informed and protected
as you determine what's next for you.
The following services may be performed based on the results of medical assessment, availability, and/or physical examination:
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Pregnancy testing
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STI screening and testing
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Hemoglobin and hematocrit (H&H) testing
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Cervical cancer screening
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Limited diagnostic ultrasound to confirm estimated gestational age and the location of the pregnancy
Medical Assessment & Nurse Consultation
Our Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners are here to walk you through the medical process at CORE Healthcare for Women of Central Georgia. They answer your questions, offer administration of your pregnancy testing, and walk you through your options. The nurse will provide sexual health education and consult with you about your next steps. She will also provide community resources and referrals.
Our nurses will perform a medical assessment during each appointment to evaluate your health care needs and assist in determining how to best meet those needs. We take a holistic approach with each appointment, because pregnancy affects every area of life. We care deeply about your well-being.
Physical Exam
This service may be performed based on the results of medical assessment and availability. The head-to-toe physical exam may include but is not limited to the following:
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General assessment of vital signs
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Pelvic exam and pap smear:
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Examine the external genitalia for abnormalities or signs of disease or infection
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Inspect the cervix and vaginal canal for abnormalities, foreign bodies, and signs of infection
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Assess for tenderness of the uterus and/or rectovaginal space, which may indicate infection
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Breast exam
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Ultrasound exam
Ultrasound Exam
An ultrasound is vital for confirming a pregnancy. It can rule out an ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, situations which may require immediate medical attention or additional care from an OB/GYN. We offer ultrasound at our three locations, in Macon, Milledgeville, and Warner Robins. During your visit, if the test our nurses provide is positive, we may be able to offer you an ultrasound. This service is offered based on results of medical assessment and availability. The nurse will be able to determine if you qualify for an ultrasound based on your medical history.
Your ultrasound will be reviewed by our Medical Director, who will confirm that you have a viable intrauterine pregnancy. Following the ultrasound, we urge you to schedule an appointment with your chosen OB/GYN for prenatal care.
Lab Testing
These services may be performed based on the results of medical assessment, availability, and/or physical examination.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Testing & Treatment:
STIs can be passed from person to person through unprotected sex and other intimate physical contact. STIs do not always have symptoms, so it is important to be tested if you are sexually active. We offer STI testing free of charge as a part of our pregnancy confirmation services to help you identify potential risks to your health and the health of your partner and/or pregnancy.
Hemoglobin & Hematocrit (H&H) Testing:
H&H testing is performed to evaluate your blood count. Those with results outside normal ranges may be at higher risk of excessive or extended bleeding or may need additional medical attention for diagnosis of disorders such as anemia. If results are found to be outside of normal limits, we will be able to provide a referral for further evaluation and care.
Decision Support
You may have questions about the options available to you. You are not alone in this process. We know an unexpected pregnancy can lead to a difficult decision. Our staff is trained to provide education about your pregnancy options, including abortion, adoption, and parenting. During an appointment our staff will:
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Equip you to be fully informed on your options: Our licensed medical team presents evidence-based education so you can make the best decision for you.
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Be with you each step of the way: A staff member known as a Patient Advocate will walk with you during your appointment with us.
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Offer a listening ear: We care about you and want to understand your unique situation. You will be able to talk to a Patient Advocate in a non-judgmental, confidential environment.
We offer education regarding Georgia abortion law using information provided by the Georgia Department of Public Health Women's Right to Know booklet. Access the booklet below.
REFERENCES
Pre-abortion recommendations are from the Clinical Practice Handbook for Safe Abortion, World Health Organization.
SERVICES DISCLAIMER
We do not provide extended OB/GYN or pre-natal care, birth control prescriptions or devices, fertility testing, abortion services, or referrals for abortion.