Abortion & Pregnancy

What providers need to know about correcting abortion misinformation and supporting patient autonomy

A 26-year-old (she/her) presents to your health center four weeks after a medication abortion at eight weeks of gestation. She reports bleeding was initially heavy with blood clots, and is now lighter, but she continues to have intermittent light bleeding and mild cramping. She reports she believes she is not pregnant anymore, as pregnancy symptoms have resolved, but is not sure if things are "done."  A transvaginal ultrasound shows a heterogeneous collection and thickened endometrial stripe, without a persistent gestational sac or evidence of an ongoing pregnancy.

We can only listen when we create a space for the patient to speak. Listening can be augmented through open-ended questions. During a period of listening, consider opting for one open-ended question in lieu of a series of closed-ended questions.

How to prevent fainting in your patients, your friends, your family, and yourself in one simple step.

What providers need to know about how these pills work and when to use them

Apply now to Bedsider's new video initiative, #Ask Bedsider

How providers can take a patient-centered approach.