FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions – About Abortion

Yes, abortion is legal in New Mexico. 

We offer free pregnancy testing at our clinic from 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. However, any drug store pregnancy test is also accurate and reliable. If you have a positive pregnancy test and would like our advice or assistance about what to do next, please call our office at (505) 242-7512. 

Request a Call to Schedule an Abortion With Our Office.

The cost of an abortion depends on how far into the pregnancy you are based on the ultrasound size. We will quote a fee based on the date of your last normal menstrual period or past ultrasound measurement. Some insurance companies cover abortion, and we accept some insurance plans. New Mexico Medicaid covers medically necessary abortion procedures. We need to verify any insurance before you come in for an appointment. If you do not have insurance or New Mexico Medicaid, please contact the office for a discussion of cost and payment. If you are unable to pay for the procedure, contact us regarding the possibility of financial assistance.

We collect payment after the sizing ultrasound has been completed in our office. We can collect payment using credit card, debit card, cash, or cashiers check (no personal checks). The card holder must be present. If the card holder is not present we can send a secure electronic payment link (please let the front office know if you require this method of payment).

In most cases, people who are 16 weeks and under can have their abortion completed in one visit to our office (one day). Please read more about what to expect during your visit and the various abortion services we offer.

Yes, telehealth medication abortion is available as long as you can provide a New Mexico mailing address and attest that you will take all medications for the abortion process (mifepristone and misoprostol) in New Mexico.

Please refer to our Transportation and Lodging Assistance page. Additionally, there are funding agencies that may be able to help finance a portion of these costs. You may also call our office at (505) 242-7512 to speak with one of our knowledgeable team members.

We have a handful of protesters outside our clinic on most days. They are not allowed on our property. We have an onsite security officer to monitor the safety of our patients, staff, and facility. We ask that you, and anyone with you, do not talk to the protesters or engage with them in any way. If you have questions or concerns, please call us at (505) 242-7512.

In order to have an abortion, we need to confirm via ultrasound that you are pregnant. Therefore, the earliest we can see you is usually around 4 to 5 weeks into the pregnancy. 

Request a Call to Schedule an Abortion With Our Office.

We currently offer services up to 24 weeks. The process to complete an abortion differs depending on the size of the pregnancy. Please contact our office to find out how you can be best prepared for your visit. 

Request a Call to Schedule an Abortion With Our Office.

There is no medical need to inform your doctor that you’ve had an abortion unless that is your preference.

If you receive moderate IV sedation, then it is required that someone drive you safely home. You will not be able to drive for the rest of the day. However, if you do not have a ride, we can discuss other options for your appointment.

If you have a photo ID please bring it to your appointment. This can include a passport, drivers license, school ID, or tribal ID. We can also accept a birth certificate or social security card. If you do not have any of these forms of ID we can still see you. Please call the office to discuss your options.

No, there are no parental consent or notification laws enforced in New Mexico. If you are a minor we suggest you confide in a trusted adult.

We suggest wearing comfortable clothing that is easy to change in and out of, including underwear that can fit a pad. Pads will be provided after the procedure but feel free to bring your own if you have a preference. Bring a photo ID and insurance card if you have one along with a phone charger and headphones for the waiting room. It can be nice to have a pair of socks to put on during your procedure if you are wearing sandals.   

Yes, especially if you feel their support will be helpful to you. However, with current security  restrictions, and limited waiting room capacity, we only allow patients in the building. Your companion can wait in the car, or in the garden seating area in front of the office, or they can drop you off and come back when it is time for pick up. You may also wait in the car with your loved one before getting called back for your process. Please inform the front office if you will be waiting outside and leave a working phone number for us to call. Reminder: If you are opting to use sedative medications you will not be able to drive yourself home.

If you have a support person, they will not be able to be in the procedure room with you. We can include your companion in as much of the process as possible via telecommunication. A trained abortion doula will be with you at all times to help keep you comfortable and advocate for your needs during your abortion.

It is normal to feel some sensations during and after an abortion. We use moderate IV sedation, prescription and nonprescription pain medication, and relaxation therapies to support patients during moments of discomfort.

A counselor will accompany you during your visit. They are there to discuss any concerns and will guide you through relaxation techniques. Soft music and soft lighting also help, as does the supportive atmosphere of the clinic. The combination of all these ingredients – anesthesia, relaxation techniques, and a supportive, soothing atmosphere – has proven to be very effective in the management of pain.

Cramping and bleeding are a normal and healthy response during and after the abortion. The frequency and intensity of cramping and bleeding can vary for a couple of weeks depending on your daily activity level. You will be given written and verbal instructions about what is not normal. Please call us at (505) 242-7512 for any questions or concerns you may have.

Most people are able to return to their normal schedules the next day or two following their abortion. We suggest that each individual pay close attention to how their body is feeling (crampy, bloated, tired, like usual, etc.) and make any adjustments to their level of activity as needed. We can always provide a medical excuse for work or school if that is something you may need; simply ask any of our staff during your visit or call our office after your appointment.

Abortion is one of the safest types of medical procedures performed in the United States. Medical evidence shows that having an abortion with no complications will not affect your ability to get pregnant and have children in the future. For more information see: https://prochoice.org/new-report-on-medical-abortion/

If you have any other questions, feel free to contact us at our office.

Request a Call to Schedule an Abortion With Our Office