Abortion is a serious decision which can have a lasting effect on your physical, emotional and spiritual health.
Types of Abortions
Types of Abortion
There are 2 types of abortions: chemical and surgical.
Physical Risks
Physical Risks
There are many potential risks to having an abortion.
Psychological Risks
Psychological Risks
Many women report having depression and a profound sense of loss and grief after an abortion.
Long Term Risks
Long Term Risks
Please consider the potential , significant long-term risks after abortion.
You may feel a need to make a decision RIGHT NOW, however, there are many things to consider which are critical to your health. You should not be pressured by anyone to have an abortion.
These are some things to consider:
Are you sure you have a viable pregnancy?
Have you ruled out an ectopic pregnancy?
Will an abortion make you depressed?
Will having an abortion affect your relationship with your boyfriend/partner?
Do you know how far along you are?
The status of your pregnancy can be determined by an ultrasound.
Abortion Information for Ventura County: Know Your Options
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming. You may be searching for information about abortion in Ventura County and wondering what your next steps should be. Life Centers of Ventura County provides accurate medical information and compassionate support as you consider your options. We are a licensed medical clinic, not an abortion provider—we do not perform, provide, or refer for abortion services. We offer free pre-abortion screening and confidential consultations to help you understand all of your choices.
Since 1972, our licensed medical clinic has served Ventura County with free pregnancy services staffed by trained nurses and client advocates.
Medical Screening Before Any Decision
Medical professionals recommend obtaining an ultrasound and confirming pregnancy details before proceeding with any abortion decision. At our licensed medical facility, we provide:
- Laboratory-quality pregnancy testing at no cost
- Limited obstetric ultrasound performed by trained medical professionals to confirm viability and proper intrauterine placement
- Nurse consultation to review your medical history and health concerns
The gestational age is based on the date of the last period to the current date and affects the type of procedures used, risks, and cost of termination of a pregnancy. Life Centers of Ventura County is the only licensed medical clinic within 25 miles offering these services completely free. We require no insurance, payment, or identification. All services are confidential and protected by medical privacy laws.
Medication Abortion (Abortion Pill)
Medication abortion typically involves taking mifepristone and misoprostol during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, though some providers extend this timeline. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, while misoprostol causes uterine contractions to expel the pregnancy tissue.
Medical screening with ultrasound before taking these medications confirms intrauterine pregnancy location, rules out ectopic pregnancy, and verifies gestational age for method eligibility. The process involves heavy bleeding and cramping for several hours to days. Medical risks include incomplete abortion requiring surgical intervention, infection, and hemorrhage.
Costs typically range from $300 to $800 or more, depending on the provider and location. Life Centers does not provide or refer for the abortion pill. We offer factual medical information about this option and can confirm your gestational age through free ultrasound services.
Surgical Abortion Procedures
In-clinic surgical procedures vary by gestational age. First-trimester procedures typically use suction aspiration. Second-trimester procedures may involve dilation and curettage (D&C) or dilation and evacuation (D&E). Procedures are performed in clinical settings under local or general anesthesia.
Recovery involves cramping and bleeding for several days to weeks. Medical risks include uterine perforation, cervical injury, infection, hemorrhage, incomplete abortion, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Most women return to regular activities within a few days, though complete physical recovery takes longer.
Accurate gestational dating through ultrasound determines which surgical method is appropriate and affects both cost and risk levels. Life Centers does not perform or refer for surgical abortions. Our medical staff provides factual information about procedures if you're considering this option.
Understanding All Three Options
When facing an unexpected pregnancy, you have three options:
- Parenting
- Adoption
- Abortion
Each option involves different medical, emotional, financial, and practical considerations. This decision is personal. For many women, there are ethical and moral considerations, as well. Our licensed nurses and trained client advocates can discuss each option with you privately, answer questions, and provide resources—when possible.
Free Confidential Appointments
Life Centers of Ventura County offers:
- Licensed medical staff and registered nurses on-site
- Free pregnancy testing and limited ultrasound services
- Private nurse consultations in a medical setting
- No-cost services with no insurance required
- HIPAA compliance and privacy protection
- A compassionate and caring client advocate who is ready to listen and offer support
Schedule your free appointment at vclifecenters.com/appointments or call our clinic. Walk-in appointments are welcome. All services remain confidential, and you're under no obligation to continue services or make any particular decision about your pregnancy.