Women's Clinic of Atlanta

Products And Services

• Abortion Information

  OUR WOMEN'S CLINIC PROVIDES ACCURATE INFORMATION ON ABORTION OPTIONS At Women’s Clinic of Atlanta, we provide easy-to-understand information about your abortion options, including the abortion pill. We know that an unplanned pregnancy diagnosis can be overwhelming, but know that you aren’t facing it alone. Our licensed medical professionals and trained patient advocates support your choice and are here to serve Atlanta women from all backgrounds, listening to your concerns without judging your decisions. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ABORTION After an unwanted pregnancy diagnosis, it’s very common to have questions about types of abortions. There are plenty of myths about abortions you may have heard, so it’s important to speak to a licensed medical professional to ensure you receive factual information about each procedure option. At our Atlanta women’s clinics, we believe it’s critical for you to you make an informed decision about abortion and know your rights. WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SURGICAL AND MEDICAL ABORTION? A medical abortion uses special medication to terminate a pregnancy. Unlike a surgical abortion, it doesn’t require anesthesia. There are different types of surgical abortions, and the method used depends on how far along you are and your preference. There are questions to be answered with both medical and surgical abortions, and it’s important you speak to a licensed medical professional about these questions before deciding. WHAT IS THE ABORTION PILL AND HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? This abortion pill, also called a medical abortion, uses a specialized medication to end a pregnancy. The abortion pill stops your body from producing a hormone needed for pregnancy called progesterone, then causes your uterus to empty. The abortion pill is often taken in two doses – one at a doctor’s office and the other may be taken at home. However, it’s important to know the abortion pill does come with potential side effects, so be sure to speak to our licensed medical professionals as you make your decision. The cost of the abortion pill varies depending on your health insurance and where you purchase it from. For some insurance plans, the abortion pill is offered at no cost to you. Speak directly to your insurance provider for more information on the cost of the abortion pill. WHEN DO I HAVE TO DECIDE IF I WANT AN ABORTION IN GEORGIA? It’s important to not rush into any decision about your unwanted pregnancy, and you shouldn’t feel pressured by anyone. You should decide when you are ready. In Georgia, you can have an abortion up to 20 weeks. Our staff at the Women’s Clinic of Atlanta are more than happy to speak with you about your options and provide excellent medical care. All services are confidential as allowable by state law.

• Post-Abortion Care Page

  AFTER ABORTION CARE AND SUPPORT IN ATLANTA It’s completely normal to experience a variety of emotions as a side effect of abortion. Some women report experiencing emotions ranging from relief and peacefulness to depression and grief. It’s important to know that there’s no wrong way to feel after your abortion procedure. However, if you are experiencing guilt, anxiety, or other signs of depression, it’s critical to find a support system to help you. The Women’s Clinic of Atlanta provides support and after abortion care to women struggling with post-abortion grief. We offer small classes in a safe environment, allowing you to express yourself and work through your emotions after an abortion. We also offer one-on-one sessions with a staff member who is trained in post-abortion care. These sessions can help you cope with your grief and continue leading a thriving life. No matter how long ago your abortion was, it’s important to be honest about your emotions so you can truly begin to heal and experience peace. SYMPTOMS OF POST-ABORTION GRIEF After an abortion, some women struggle to manage symptoms of grief. Those symptoms can include: • Anniversary grief (on the anniversary date of the abortion or due date of the aborted child) • Anxiety or psychological numbness • Depression or similar signs o Conflicts in relationships o Poor self-esteem o Reduced motivation o Sleep or appetite disruption o Sudden uncontrollable crying episodes o Thoughts of suicide o Unexplained feelings of sadness • Eating disorders, alcohol and drug abuse, or other self-punishing or self-degrading behaviors • Flashbacks of the abortion • Interruption of the bonding process with other children • Preoccupation with becoming pregnant again or anxiety over fertility and childbearing issues • Survival guilt If you are struggling with any of these post-abortion grief symptoms, call and schedule an appointment with us. The Women’s Clinic of Atlanta provides a safe outlet for you to work through these concerns and heal. All services are confidential as allowable by state law.

• Advanced Abortion Consultation and Screening

  The Women’s Clinic of Atlanta provides advanced abortion consultations and screenings to help you answer important medical questions before getting an abortion, including: DO I HAVE SIGNS OF PREGNANCY AND PROOF OF PREGNANCY? o If you are experiencing signs of pregnancy, you will need verified evidence from a medical professional before getting an abortion. In Georgia, women are required to receive documented proof of pregnancy from a licensed medical professional 24 hours before an abortion. Our advanced abortion screening service provides Atlanta women with accurate, lab-quality pregnancy test results to confirm your signs of pregnancy. IS MY PREGNANCY VIABLE? o During our advanced abortion consultation, our medical team will determine if your pregnancy is likely to end with a natural miscarriage, including monitoring for a heartbeat. It is medically recommended to eliminate miscarriage as a possibility before getting an abortion. HOW FAR ALONG IS MY PREGNANCY? o In Georgia, the gestational age of your pregnancy determines what type of abortion you’re eligible to receive. Our licensed medical professional will determine the fetal and gestational age, then discuss your options. Safe and reputable abortion providers require abortion ultrasounds prior to the procedure to accurately determine the gestational age. DO I HAVE AN STI, AND WILL IT AFFECT MY ABORTION PROCEDURE? o If you test positive for a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI), an abortion procedure can increase your risk of complications or further infections. It’s medically recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to undergo an STI screening and receive proper treatment before getting an abortion. WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR ABORTION SCREENING APPOINTMENT When you visit Women’s Clinic of Atlanta for an advanced abortion consultation, you will be supported by caring medical staff in a non-judgmental environment. Our waiting area and care rooms are designed with your well-being in mind, because we know getting an unplanned pregnancy diagnosis is stressful and oftentimes overwhelming. During your advanced abortion screening appointment, you can bring whoever you need to support you. After the initial intake with the licensed medical professional, you have the final say about who can go back to the care room with you because nothing is more important than keeping you comfortable, safe, and free from any pressure to make decisions. If you receive a positive pregnancy test, our licensed medical professionals will answer your questions about the abortion procedures. We can even offer support and advice on how to tell your parents, friends, or significant other about your unplanned pregnancy. You aren’t alone – our team will show you compassion and understanding every step of the way. All services are confidential as allowable by state law.

• Emergency Contraception

  Emergency contraceptives are a variety of widely-used drugs used to prevent pregnancy. There are many misconceptions about emergency contraception, and our licensed medical professionals are committed to providing Atlanta women with accurate information about their options. Some questions many of our patients ask include: HOW DOES EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION WORK? You can get pregnant days after you have sex, as sperm can live inside your body for up to six days. Emergency contraception is a large dose of birth control medication and can work in a variety of ways to prevent pregnancy including: • Preventing a fertilized egg from implanting onto the lining of the uterus (implantation) • Preventing the egg from being released into the ovary (ovulation) • Preventing the sperm from fertilizing the egg (fertilization) WHAT TYPES OF EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION ARE AVAILABLE? There are a number of emergency contraceptive products available to women in Atlanta, each working in different ways. Some emergency contraceptive products, like an Intrauterine Device (IUD), require placement by medical professionals. Others, like morning-after pills, don’t require a prescription. Our licensed medical professionals can help you learn more about your options and what might be right for you. HOW EFFECTIVE IS EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION LIKE THE MORNING-AFTER PILL? The effectiveness of the morning-after pill or another form of emergency contraception depends on a variety of factors, including how soon you take it after unprotected sex and if you are currently taking any other medications. The licensed medical professionals at our Atlanta clinics can offer more information and answer your questions about emergency contraception. I'VE USED EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION BUT I'M STILL HAVING PREGNANCY SYMPTOMS. WHAT NOW? If you are still having pregnancy symptoms after you’ve used emergency contraception, call us to schedule an appointment for an advanced abortion screening. During this screening, our compassionate team will conduct a lab-quality pregnancy test and, if you test positive, help you answer important medical questions before getting an abortion. All services are confidential as allowable by state law.

• Affordable STI Clinic Testing

  Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) are spread through sexual contact with another person. To be infected, the STI bacteria or virus needs to enter your body and grow. At the Women’s Clinic of Atlanta, we offer low-priced STI testing and treatment services to our patients. We intentionally set our STI testing prices at affordable levels to keep these critical services available to as many patients in the Atlanta community as possible. If you are sexually active, it’s important to monitor your sexual health and STI risk. If an STI is left untreated in your body, it can lead to lifelong negative health issues. It’s strongly recommended that you be tested before engaging in sexual activity with a new partner to prevent the spread of STIs. During an STI appointment, our licensed medical professionals will collect a blood or urine sample to conduct a screening for the following: • Chlamydia • Gonorrhea • Hepatitis B • Hepatitis C • Herpes 1 and 2 • HIV • Syphilis STI TREATMENTS OPTIONS No matter your STI diagnosis, the Women’s Clinic of Atlanta is here to support you. Some STIs can be cured and we can provide you with a prescription or injection to combat the infection. However, other types of STIs can’t be cured, and the only treatment option is symptom management. We can provide medical support for managing your STI symptoms and even offer advice on how to inform your past and present sexual partners. It’s important to note that the Women’s Clinic of Atlanta doesn’t provide emergency services. If you are experiencing potentially life-threatening symptoms or illness such as pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, or fever, visit an emergency room immediately. All services are confidential as allowable by state law. Additional costs will be incurred if the STI test results are positive & treatment, confirmatory testing, or test of cure is needed. The Women’s Clinic of Atlanta only provides STI treatment for patients who receive STI testing at the Women’s Clinic of Atlanta.

• Sexually Transmitted Infection Rates in Atlanta

  According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Georgia ranks among the highest in the United States in Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) rates: • 3rd most gonorrhea cases • 4th most primary and secondary syphilis cases • 5th most chlamydia cases • Highest HIV infection rate in the United States This data highlights the importance of getting tested for STIs and seeking proper medical treatment if you’re infected. The Women’s Clinic of Atlanta offers STI testing and treatment at affordable prices, with the goal of reducing the high STI rates throughout our state. Many people with an STI don’t even know they are infected, but the infection can still be spread. We strongly recommend you be tested before engaging in sexual activity with a new partner to prevent the spread of STIs. COMMON STI SYMPTOMS STIs can be spread from any form of sexual activity involving contact with genital areas or infected body fluids. Some common STIs include: • Chlamydia • Genital herpes • Gonorrhea • Hepatitis B • HIV/AIDS • HPV • Syphilis Each of these STIs carries a number of symptoms, many of which aren't always obvious. It's important to seek treatment if you suspect you are infected to avoid lifelong health complications including infertility, organ damage, or in some cases, even death. In pregnant women, some STIs can lead to miscarriage, stillbirths, and premature delivery. Some STI symptoms to watch out for include: • Bleeding between periods • Discharge from the penis or vagina • Fever • Itching or irritation in the genitals • Lower abdominal pain • Painful bowel movements • Painful intercourse • Painful urination • Rash • Swollen lymph glands • Testicular pain All services are confidential as allowable by state law.

• Unplanned Pregnancy

  You've missed your period and are starting to notice some other odd symptoms. Then it hits you that you might be pregnant. It's a scary thought and facing an unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming. But it's important to know that you don't have to face it alone. The Women's Clinic of Atlanta has served women dealing with unplanned pregnancies for over 20 years and is here to support you in this uncertain time. First, it’s important to be sure you are pregnant. A missed period is by far the most common sign, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you are pregnant. Some other pregnancy symptoms include: • Backaches • Darkening of the nipples • Fatigue • Food cravings or aversions • Frequent urination • Lightheadedness • Nausea • Tender or swollen breasts If you are experiencing these symptoms, call one of our Atlanta clinic locations to schedule a lab-certified pregnancy test. You will have the test results during your appointment. Our testing is 99.9% accurate, detecting the presence of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) pregnancy hormone as early as the day before your first missed period. WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR PREGNANCY TEST APPOINTMENT We understand that it can be worrying to face a possible unplanned pregnancy diagnosis. That’s why our Atlanta clinics are designed to create a relaxing, calm, and judgment-free environment. To respect your privacy and the privacy of our patients, we ask that your friends or family wait in the lobby until your test is complete. Then, your support team of family and friends can join you in the care room while your test is evaluated and you are given the results. IF YOU HAVE A POSITIVE PREGNANCY TEST If your pregnancy test comes back positive, our licensed medical professionals and compassionate patient advocates will clearly explain your options, including your abortion options. We will answer your questions and, if you wish, schedule you for an advanced abortion screening at our Atlanta pregnancy clinic. During this appointment, we will determine the gestational age of the pregnancy through an ultrasound and provide the medical information you need before getting an abortion. All services are confidential as allowable by state law. Ultrasounds are provided for qualifying patients only. Please visit your nearest Women’s Clinic of Atlanta to see if you qualify.

• Unplanned Pregnancy for the Guys

  An unexpected pregnancy diagnosis is scary for everyone involved, including the father. It can change your entire life. But you don’t have to go through this alone. At the Women’s Center of Atlanta, we serve women facing unexpected pregnancy with a number of health services, and we also offer support for the father, if the mother chooses. If you and your partner are experiencing an accidental pregnancy, here’s some advice on how to manage the situation: DO • Stay Calm o Learning about an accidental pregnancy can be difficult to process and lead to high-charged emotions. However, it’s crucial you remain calm and support your partner. • Listen o Actively listen to your partner's concerns and questions. Seek advice and listen to trusted mentors. • Be Honest o Your perspective matters. Express yourself honestly to your partner, but make sure she knows she isn’t alone. DON'T • Pressure o Pressuring your partner to make a decision about the unexpected pregnancy will only drive your relationship apart. Instead, work as a team through each day. • Leave o Your partner is feeling similar emotions to you after the positive pregnancy test. It’s crucial you stick with her for support. • Neglect Your Role o Remember that you have an active role in the situation. Don’t hesitate to give your thoughts and express yourself to your partner. WHAT TO EXPECT AT HER PREGNANCY APPOINTMENT As the father, you are welcome to come with your partner to our Atlanta pregnancy clinics, but only if she says it’s OK. You will have to stay in the waiting room until her health screening is complete. Then, if your partner allows it, you’ll be invited to the care room as we deliver the pregnancy test results. Our mission is to support women, but we are also here for you. We will answer your questions, provide you with information and advice, and help you process the options after an unexpected pregnancy. All services are confidential as allowable by state law.

• Facing Teenage Pregnancy While in School

  As a teenager, you have a lot to manage. Between parents, school, extracurricular activities, and relationships, your hands are full. An unplanned pregnancy diagnosis can disrupt all of those important things in your life and add to your daily stress. At times, it can feel overwhelming. The Women’s Clinic of Atlanta provides teen pregnancy resources and support in a confidential, compassionate, judgment-free environment. By law, we aren’t allowed to contact your parents about your visit to our clinic, so you don’t have to worry about your privacy. Can’t Schedule an Appointment Over the Phone? Text Us at 678-764-0857. We can provide you with pregnancy verification and offer a listening ear. Our compassionate team is ready to help you work through this difficult time. Click on your school to find directions to the nearest Women’s Clinic of Atlanta. We have two locations, in Johns Creek and Decatur. Johns Creek Women’s Clinic 750 Old Alabama Rd. Suite 100 Johns Creek, GA 30022 Decatur Women’s Clinic 222 E. Ponce de Leon Ave. Decatur, GA 30030 Find Your Atlanta Area School Schools Closest to our Johns Creek Location • Alpharetta High School • Atlanta Country Day School • Blessed Trinity Catholic School • Bridgeway Christian Academy • Cambridge High School • Centennial High School • DeVry University • Eaton Academy • Fellowship Christian School • Forsyth Central High School • Georgia Perimeter College – Alpharetta Campus • Independence High School • Johns Creek High School • Kings Ridge Christian School • Lambert High School • Lanier Technical College • Milton High School • Mount Pisgah Christian School • Norcross High School • North Forsyth High School • North Gwinnett High School • North Springs High School • Northview High School • Riverwood High School • Roswell High School • South Forsyth High School • St. Francis Day School • The Cottage School • West Forsyth High School Schools Closest to our Decatur Location • Academy of the Oaks • Agnes Scott College • Arabia Mountain High School • Avondale High School • Benjamin Franklin Academy • Cedar Grove High School • Chamblee Charter High School • Clark Atlanta • Clarkston High School • Columbia High School • Cross Keys High School • DeKalb Early College Academy • DeKalb School of the Arts • DeKalb Technical College • DeVry University Decatur Campus • Druid Hills High School • Dunwoody High School • Elizabeth Andrews High School • Emory University • Georgia Institute of Technology • Georgia Perimeter • Georgia State University • His Christian Academy • Lakeside High School • Lakeside High School • Laurus Technical Institute • Lithonia High School • Marist • Martin Luther King, Jr. High School • Miller Grove High School • Redan High School • Sophia Academy • Southwest DeKalb High School • St. Pius • Stephenson High School • Stone Mountain High School • The Community School • Towers High School • Towers High School • Tucker High School All services are confidential as allowable by state law.