Monday, 13 July 2026

An unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming. If you're considering going to an abortion clinic, it's important to know what to expect. This can help you make a fully informed decision.

Where Can I Get an In-Clinic Abortion in Texas?

Abortion is currently banned in Texas, except to preserve the life of the pregnant woman. This will not affect care for miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy. A woman who seeks or obtains an abortion will not be held criminally or civilly liable under Texas law.[1][2]

Because of the ban, there are no legal abortion clinics operating in Texas. If you plan to travel to another state for an abortion, you need to understand:

The different types of in-clinic abortion procedures
The possible risks and side effects
When to seek medical help if you experience complications
What to do before visiting an abortion clinic

Keep reading to learn more.

Types of In-Clinic Abortion Procedures

The type of surgical abortion you can receive depends on how far along your pregnancy is. The abortion provider will recommend either a suction (vacuum) aspiration or a dilation and evacuation (D&E).

Suction (Vacuum) Aspiration Abortion

A suction (vacuum) aspiration abortion is typically performed up to 13 weeks of pregnancy. Here's how it works:

Before the procedure, small instruments or a medication is used to open (dilate) the cervix.
Misoprostol may also be given to soften the cervix.
During the procedure itself, a suction device is used to remove the fetus.

Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)

A dilation and evacuation (D&E) is a surgical abortion most often performed in the second trimester. This procedure is usually performed under anesthesia. It's more complex than a suction (vacuum) aspiration abortion due to the fetus's size.

Here's how it works:

Before the procedure, sponge-like sticks (laminaria) are inserted into the cervix.
These sticks absorb moisture and gradually expand, opening the cervix.
During the procedure itself, a suction device and tools like forceps are used to remove the fetus.

How Much Does an In-Clinic Abortion Cost?

The cost of an in-clinic abortion depends on how far along you are. Here are the national averages[3]:

First Trimester (up to 13 weeks of pregnancy): Prices range from $600 to $979.

Second Trimester (13 to 24 weeks of pregnancy): Early in the second trimester, the average cost is $715. Later in the second trimester, the cost can range from $1,500-2,000.

These prices do not include the cost of any pre-screening services (such as an ultrasound) or follow-up care.

Side Effects and Risks

Common side effects of surgical abortion include cramping, spotting, and bleeding. These can last up to two weeks, depending on the procedure. One study found that second-trimester abortions can be more painful than expected.[4]

Potential physical risks include:

Uterine Perforation: An instrument may accidentally puncture the uterus, possibly needing surgical repair.[5]

Asherman Syndrome: Scar tissue inside the uterus from repeated procedures can impact future fertility.[6]

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Bacteria introduced during surgery may cause infection in the reproductive tract.[7]

Additionally, some women report experiencing mental health struggles after abortion. Examples include:[8][9]

Depression
Anxiety
Low self-esteem
Substance abuse
Suicidal behaviors

If you're thinking about suicide, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

Complications can happen after an in-clinic abortion. Go to the nearest emergency room if you experience any of the following:

Heavy, excessive bleeding
Persistent fever
Severe or worsening abdominal pain not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication
Foul-smelling vaginal discharge

What to Do Before Visiting an Abortion Clinic

Before visiting an abortion clinic, it's crucial to receive an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy viability and gestational age. This information helps you understand your pregnancy options and make the best decision for your health.

Viability

A viable pregnancy indicates that the pregnancy is progressing normally and has the potential to continue to term. During an ultrasound, technicians look for signs like a fetal heartbeat. This usually appears between 6.5 and 7 weeks of pregnancy.[10]

Getting an ultrasound before an abortion helps check for nonviable pregnancies. This includes miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies, where the embryo grows outside the uterus. These conditions need alternative medical care.

Gestational Age

Gestational age refers to how far along you are in your pregnancy. Doctors measure it from the first day of your last period.

Knowing your gestational age is crucial because abortion becomes increasingly risky the further along you are.

Pregnancy Help Center of Fort Worth provides free ultrasounds to women who receive positive pregnancy tests at our center. Click the button below to schedule your appointment.

Schedule Your Appointment

*Important note: Please be aware that this article is not meant to substitute for medical advice or treatment. The purpose of our limited ultrasound exams is to identify a pregnancy inside the uterus, detect the fetal heartbeat, and estimate how far along you are. If there is no detectable heartbeat, it may indicate a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy is occurring. If we cannot detect a fetal heartbeat during your appointment, we will provide appropriate referrals for follow-up care and treatment.

Considering an In-Clinic Abortion? Visit Pregnancy Help Center of Fort Worth First.

If you're considering an in-clinic abortion, Pregnancy Help Center of Fort Worth is here to help you make an informed decision. We offer:

Free Services: Pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, STD testing and treatment.
Compassionate Support: A safe space to ask questions and explore your options without pressure.
Personalized Guidance: We are here to answer your questions and help you explore each of your pregnancy options.

Give us a call at 817-560-2226 or schedule your appointment online today.