By Cornerstone on Thursday, 06 August 2026
Category: Abortion

What to Expect from an In-Clinic Abortion

An unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming. If you’re looking for an abortion clinic in Carthage, North Carolina, 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 North Carolina?

Currently, abortion is legal until 12 weeks of pregnancy in North Carolina, and an ultrasound is required beforehand. However, exceptions can be made in the case of life endangerment to the pregnant woman. [1]

Whether you plan to stay in North Carolina or travel to another state for an abortion, you need to understand: 

Keep reading to learn more.

Types of In-Clinic Abortion Procedures

The type of in-clinic abortion you can receive depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy. 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 performed within the first trimester of pregnancy. Here's how it works:

Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)

A dilation and evacuation (D&E) is a surgical abortion procedure 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:

How Much Does an In-Clinic Abortion Cost?

In North Carolina, an in-clinic abortion can cost between $440 to $625[1], depending on how far along you are and whether or not you have insurance. 

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.[2]

Potential physical risks include:  

Additionally, some women report experiencing mental health struggles after abortion. Examples include the following: [6][7]

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

What to Do Before Visiting an Abortion Clinic

Before visiting an abortion clinic, it’s crucial to receive an ultrasound. Per NC law, women must 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

Viable pregnancies continue to progress. Medical professionals look for signs like a fetal heartbeat, which can appear with a vaginal ultrasound between 5 and 6 weeks of pregnancy.[9] 

An ultrasound helps identify nonviable pregnancies, such as miscarriages and ectopic pregnancies (where the embryo grows outside the uterus). In these cases, abortion is not necessary, and alternative medical interventions are required. 

Gestational Age

Gestational age refers to how far along you are in your pregnancy. Although you can estimate gestational age based on your last menstrual period, the most accurate measurement is obtained through an ultrasound. 

Knowing your gestational age is crucial because North Carolina prohibits abortion after 12 weeks in most cases.[9]

Life Care Pregnancy Center provides free ultrasounds to women who receive positive pregnancy tests at our center. Click the button below to schedule your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions about In-Clinic Abortions

Q: How long does recovery take after an in-clinic abortion?

Recovery time varies depending on the type of procedure and how far along the pregnancy is. Most women experience cramping and bleeding for a few days to two weeks. Some women also need additional time for emotional recovery. 

Q: Will I feel pain during an in-clinic abortion procedure?

Pain levels vary from person to person. Suction aspiration procedures often involve cramping similar to strong menstrual cramps, while second-trimester D&E procedures are typically performed under anesthesia. Many women report the pain was more intense than they expected, especially in later procedures. 

Q: Why should I get an ultrasound before an abortion?

North Carolina Laws require an ultrasound before an abortion. Additionally, an ultrasound confirms whether the pregnancy is viable, rules out ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage, and accurately measures gestational age. Life Care Pregnancy Center provides free ultrasounds and confidential support to help you make an informed decision.

Considering an In-Clinic Abortion in Carthage, North Carolina? Visit Life Care Pregnancy Center First.

If you’re considering an in-clinic abortion in Carthage, North Carolina, Life Care Pregnancy Center is here to help you make an informed decision. We offer:

Give us a call at (910) 947-6198 or schedule your appointment online today.

*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.

Sources

  1. As advertised by abortion providers.
  2. Dzuba, I. G., Chandrasekaran, S., Fix, L., Blanchard, K., & King, E. (2022, May 12). Pain, Side Effects, and Abortion Experience Among People Seeking Abortion Care in the Second Trimester. Women’s Health Reports (New Rochelle, N.Y.). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9148646/
  3. U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2024, April 5). Abortion - Surgical. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002912.htm
  4. Mayo Clinic. (2024, July 6). Elective Abortion: Does it Affect Subsequent Pregnancies? https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/getting-pregnant/expert-answers/abortion/faq-20058551
  5. Mayo Clinic. (2022, April 30). Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pelvic-inflammatory-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20352594
  6. Fergusson, D. M., Horwood, L. J., & Ridder, E. M. (2005, September 22). Abortion in young women and subsequent mental health. Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health. https://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1469-7610.2005.01538.x
  7. Coleman, PK. Abortion and mental health: quantitative synthesis and analysis of research published 1995–2009. British Journal of Psychiatry. 2011;199(3):180-186. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21881096/
  8. Cleveland Clinic. (2023, March 3). Fetal Development. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/7247-fetal-development-stages-of-growth  
  9. North Carolina General Assembly. (2023, May 4). SENATE BILL 20 RATIFIED BILL. https://www.ncleg.gov/Sessions/2023/Bills/Senate/PDF/S20v5.pdf 
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