What is the Abortion Pill?

The shock of an unplanned pregnancy can make you feel unsure about your decision. As you decide, you’ll want to have all the facts about your options and the information about your pregnancy. Keep reading to learn about the abortion pill and what you need to know beforehand!

How Does the Abortion Pill Work? 

With the abortion pill, a woman intentionally takes medication to terminate her pregnancy. Abortion pills may also be called a medical abortion, chemical abortion, RU-486, or at-home abortion. 

The process involves two medications. The first medication, mifepristone, interferes with progesterone receptors and prevents the pregnancy from developing. The second medication, misoprostol, causes the uterus to cramp and expel the pregnancy.[1] 

Can Your Gynecologist Give You the Abortion Pill? 

In states where abortion is legal, only certified doctors or mid-level providers can prescribe abortion pills. They will determine whether a woman qualifies for an abortion based on the gestational age. They will also rule out contraindications to an abortion such as an ectopic pregnancy, drug allergies, blood thinning disorders, an IUD, or other medical disorders[2].

Pathway Health Clinic provides free ultrasounds to determine your gestational age. Click here to learn more.

How Much Does the Abortion Pill Cost?

Abortion pills can cost up to $750 and include fees for ultrasounds, blood tests, medications, and follow-up appointments. At Pathway Health Clinic we provide cost-free pregnancy confirmation and limited ultrasounds. 

What are the Risks of the Abortion Pill? 

Like any medical procedure or medication, the abortion pill has risks.[3] First, women wanting an abortion should rule out an ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy develops outside of the uterus and can be life-threatening if not properly treated. So, before taking abortion pills, it is recommended that a woman receive an ultrasound first. 

Further complications after taking mifepristone include prolonged bleeding, an infection, an allergic reaction, or an incomplete abortion, which could require further medical intervention. 

How Effective is the Abortion Pill? 

Up to 8% of women who take the abortion pill require a further surgical procedure because the abortion was incomplete.[4]

Where Can I Go to Get an Abortion Pill? 

Some providers require a woman to take the first pill in the abortion clinic. Others, depending on state laws, can obtain abortion pills from certified pharmacies. Women should never order abortion pills online from a foreign pharmacy. The FDA has not evaluated those pills for safety[5] and could contain the wrong amount of medication. 

How Far Along Can You Take the Abortion Pill? 

Women qualify for the abortion pill only up until 10 weeks of gestation.[6] Gestational age can be estimated based on a woman’s last menstrual period, but an ultrasound is the most exact way to determine the gestational age. Call Pathway Health Clinic for a free ultrasound today.  

How Long Does the Abortion Pill Take to Work? 

During the abortion pill regimen, a woman takes mifepristone first. Then, 24 to 48 hours later she takes misoprostol which causes her uterus to cramp and to expel the pregnancy. She may continue to experience bleeding for about 9 to 16 days and could bleed up to 30 days. [7] She should follow up with a provider 7 to 14 days after taking the abortion pill to evaluate for complications.[8]

Does the Abortion Pill Hurt? 

Everyone tolerates pain differently, but on average, women report a higher level of pain than they expected. They describe the pain as worse than menstrual cramps and compare it to labor contractions.[9]

Is Plan B an Abortion Pill? 

Plan B is an emergency contraception and can be referred to as the morning-after pill. Emergency contraception and abortion pills are different. Emergency contraception attempts to prevent a pregnancy from starting by delaying ovulation and preventing fertilization, but the abortion pills end a pregnancy that has already begun. 

Abortion Pill Information in Vista, California 

Weighing the pros and cons of abortion can feel overwhelming. But you aren’t alone! Visit Pathway Health Clinic to speak with our qualified and compassionate staff. We provide a non-judgmental space for you to process your questions and concerns. 

Please be aware that Pathway Health Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services.

Sources

  1. Cleveland Clinic. (2024). Medical Abortion. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion
  2. FDA. (2023, January). Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. FDA. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation?sm_guid=NTU1NzgyfDYzMDE1OTM2fC0xfGppbUBha2ZhbWlseS5vcmd8NTY4OTI4MXx8MHwwfDE5OTYwMDk4OHwxMDg2fDB8MHx8NTQ3NzI2fDA1
  3. What is the Abortion Pill? (2024, January 10). Pregnancy Decision Line. https://pregnancydecisionline.org/what-is-the-abortion-pill/
  4. Danco Laboratories, LLC. (2022). MEDICATION GUIDE: Mifeprex. Danco Laboratories, LLC. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/020687s014lbl.pdf
  5. FDA. (2023, January). Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation.
  6. Danco Laboratories, LLC. (2022). MEDICATION GUIDE: Mifeprex
  7. Ibid.
  8. FDA. (2023, September 1). Questions and Answers on Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy Through Ten Weeks Gestation. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation 
  9. Georgsson, S., & Carlsson, T. (2019). Pain and pain management during induced abortions: A web-based exploratory study of recollections from previous patients. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 75(11), 3006–3017. https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.14132 
Is At-Home Abortion Safe?

If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy, you’ve likely heard the term “at-home abortion”. You may be wondering how it works, what your options are, and if it’s the right choice for you. 

It’s crucial to get all the facts, so you can make a fully informed decision. In this blog, we’ll explore at-home abortions—including how they work and if they’re safe, legal, and right for you. Keep reading to learn more! 

How Does an At-Home Abortion Work? 

An at-home abortion is exactly what it sounds like—an abortion done at home. Some women attempt at-home abortions by ingesting a mixture of herbs (more on that in a moment). Others take the abortion pill (also known as medication abortion). 

Although it’s called the abortion pill (singular), there are actually two pills in the abortion pill regimen: mifepristone and misoprostol. 

Mifepristone is taken first, usually in a clinic. This pill cuts the supply of the hormone progesterone to the embryo, which is needed to continue the pregnancy. The embryo stops growing without a steady supply of progesterone.

Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later at home. It causes the uterus to cramp and expel the embryo, which ends the pregnancy.

Are At-Home Abortions Legal?

Currently, abortion in California is legal up to viability[1]. However, you can’t take the abortion pill beyond 10 weeks of pregnancy (or 70 days since the first day of your last menstrual period)[2]

Before an at-home abortion, consider receiving a free ultrasound at Pathway Health Clinic to determine how far along you are and to make sure the pregnancy is placed inside the uterus and not the fallopian tube. If not, this is called an ectopic pregnancy and requires immediate medical attention.

If your ultrasound determines that you’re too far along for the abortion pill, we will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the best choice for your health and future!

Are At-Home Abortions Safe?

At-home abortions are not without risk. After taking the abortion pill, you could experience severe side effects, such as: 

  • Hemorrhaging. It’s normal to bleed for a while after taking the abortion pill. However, if you soak through two full-size sanitary pads per hour, for two or more hours, you could be hemorrhaging[3].
  • Anaphylactic Shock. You could go into anaphylactic shock if you’re allergic to any of the ingredients in misoprostol[4].
  • Incomplete abortion. Incomplete abortions occur when some pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus after misoprostol has been taken. You may need emergency surgery to remove the remaining tissue and prevent an infection[5]
  • Infection. If you experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or a fever for more than 24 hours after taking the second medication, an infection may have developed. You may need antibiotics or even surgery to treat your condition[5].

Herbal abortions are also incredibly dangerous. You may have seen videos on social media talking about how easy and convenient they are. However, there isn’t enough scientific evidence available to suggest that they actually work. Additionally, medical professionals warn that they can cause permanent infertility, significant sickness, organ failure, and even death[6]

Abortion Information in Vista, CA

We get it—an unplanned pregnancy can leave you feeling desperate. Many of us at Pathway Health Clinic have been there ourselves. It’s our mission to help you protect your health and make a safe, informed decision! We provide abortion information, free pregnancy services, and a nonjudgmental space to explore your options and process your emotions. 

Schedule your free appointment today. All services are confidential and provided at no cost to you!

Please be aware that Pathway Health Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services. 

Sources

  1. Your Legal Right to an Abortion. California Abortion Access. (2023). https://abortion.ca.gov/your-rights/your-legal-right-to-an-abortion/index.html 
  2. FDA. (2023, September 1). Questions and Answers on Mifeprex. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifeprex  
  3. U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2016, May 16). Mifepristone (Mifeprex). MedlinePlus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a600042.html 
  4. Shin, Hyun Joo, et al. “Anaphylactic Shock to Vaginal Misoprostol: A Rare Adverse Reaction to a Frequently Used Drug.” PubMed Central (PMC), 9 Aug. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6137020
  5. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, July 29). Medical Abortion. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/medical-abortion/about/pac-20394687
  6. Wancour, B. (2022, July 19). Medicine’s Ryan Marino discussed the dangers of “herbal abortions.” Case Western Reserve University. https://thedaily.case.edu/medicines-ryan-marino-discussed-the-dangers-of-herbal-abortions/  
Late-Term Abortion: Procedures, Risks, Pain, and More

If you’re further along in your pregnancy, you may be wondering if abortion is still an option for you. Is it safe when you’re farther along? Is it more painful than early-term abortion? It may feel like you have too many questions and not enough time.

Take a deep breath. Pathway Health Clinic is here to help! In this blog, we’re exploring late-term abortion, so you can make an informed and empowered decision! Keep reading to learn more! 

What is Late-Term Abortion?

Late-term abortion refers to an abortion that is performed during the second trimester (14 to 26 weeks) or third trimester (27 to 40 weeks) of pregnancy.

Late-term abortions are rare, but they do happen. In 2021, 5.7% of abortions in the United States were performed between 14 to 20 weeks. 0.9% were performed at or beyond 21 weeks[1]

Are Late-Term Abortions Legal in California?

Currently, abortion is legal up until viability in California[2]. Viability refers to the point in pregnancy when a fetus is developed enough to survive outside the womb with medical help. Viability occurs at approximately 24 weeks of pregnancy[3]

Before an abortion, consider receiving a free ultrasound at Pathway Health Clinic to confirm how far along you are. We will help you explore all of your pregnancy options, so you can make the best choice for your health and future!

How are Late-Term Abortions Performed?

There are two late-term abortion procedures: dilation and evacuation (D&E) and labor induction abortion. The one you receive depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy. 

Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)

Dilation and evacuations (D&E) are performed after 13 weeks and up to 24 weeks of pregnancy[4]. To begin, the doctor will dilate (open) the cervix, which can be done in one of three ways[4]

  • The day before the procedure, the doctor inserts sponge-like sticks into the cervix. Over time, they will absorb moisture, expand, and open the cervix.
  • Shortly before the procedure, the doctor gives you medication to soften the cervix. 
  • Shortly before the procedure, the doctor inserts and removes metal rods to expand the cervix.

Once dilation is complete, the doctor will use forceps to remove the fetus and placenta. This procedure takes about 15 to 30 minutes[4].

Labor Induction Abortion

Labor induction abortions are performed after 16 weeks of pregnancy[5]

To begin, the doctor will numb your abdomen with a painkiller. They will then inject either digoxin or potassium chloride through your abdomen. This injection will travel through the uterus and into the amniotic fluid and fetus to stop the fetal heartbeat[5]

Next, the doctor will administer medication to start contractions, which will cause your cervix to dilate. Finally, misoprostol is taken to make the uterus cramp and expel the fetus, completing the abortion[5].

Is Late-Term Abortion Safe?

Both forms of late-term abortion come with risks and side effects, including: 

  • Nausea and vomiting[5]
  • Fever and chills[5]
  • Diarrhea[5]
  • Abdominal pain[5]
  • Heavy bleeding[4;5]
  • Tears in the wall of the uterus[4;5]
  • Injuries to the cervix[4;5]
  • Infection[4;5]
  • Failed induction[4;5]

If the induction fails, you may need a dilation and evacuation to complete the procedure[4;5]. It should also be noted that late-term abortion can be painful. Studies have found that women who received late-term abortions experienced more pain than they expected during their procedures[6]

Get the Facts on Late-Term Abortion at Pathway Health Clinic 

We understand. Considering a late-term abortion may feel overwhelming and lonely. Pathway Health Clinic is a safe place to ask the hard questions, process your emotions, and get the care you deserve. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your health and future!

Schedule your free appointment today. All services are confidential and provided at no cost to you!

Please be aware that Pathway Health Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services. 

Sources

  1. Abortion Surveillance—Findings and Reports. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, November 21). https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/data_stats/abortion.htm  
  2. Proclamation on Reproductive Freedom. (2019, May 31). https://www.gov.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Proclamation-on-Reproductive-Freedom.pdf 
  3. Breborowicz, G. (2001, January). Limits of fetal viability and its enhancement. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11753511/ 
  4. Dilation and Evacuation (D&E). Michigan Department of Health & Human Services. (n.d.). https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/informedconsent/michigans-informed-consent-for-abortion-law/procedures/dilation-and-evacuation-de  
  5. Second Trimester Labor Induction Abortion. Michigan Department of Health & Human Services. (n.d.). https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/informedconsent/michigans-informed-consent-for-abortion-law/procedures/second-trimester-labor-induction-abortion  
  6. 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/  
Can Misoprostol Work Without Mifepristone?

Over the past few months, there’s been a legal battle over access to mifepristone (also known as Mifeprex), one of the drugs used in the abortion pill regimen. In response, some women have turned to misoprostol-only abortions. If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and your state has been affected by the mifepristone ban, you may be wondering if a misoprostol-only abortion is the right choice for you.

In this article, we’ll explore how misoprostol-only abortions work, their risks and side effects, and help you take your next steps! Keep reading to learn more.

How Does a Misoprostol-Only Abortion Work?

Normally, two pills are taken in the abortion pill regimen. 

Mifepristone is taken first, which blocks the supply of the hormone progesterone to the embryo, which is needed to maintain the pregnancy. The embryo stops growing without a steady supply of progesterone. Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later, which causes the uterus to cramp, bleed, and expel the pregnancy. 

In a misoprostol-only abortion, you skip the mifepristone and take multiple doses of misoprostol instead. The dose you take depends on your gestational age. Misoprostol can only be taken through ten weeks gestation (or 70 days or less since the first day of the last period)[1].

Are Misoprostol Only Abortions Safe?

Although misoprostol alone can be used to induce an abortion, this method is not as effective as the combination of mifepristone and misoprostol[2]. Misoprostol can also cause severe side effects, such as[3]

  • Low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Faster than normal heart rhythm (sinus tachycardia)
  • Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
  • Cuts or tears to the cervix (cervical laceration)
  • Uterine rupture 
  • Infection (caused by a uterine rupture)
  • Severe allergic reaction

It’s also important to note that not everyone can take misoprostol. Those who experience kidney disease, stomach ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, heart or blood vessel problems, or dehydration should not take misoprostol, as it could worsen their conditions[4]. Speak to your doctor beforehand and never order misoprostol online without a prescription! 

Which is Safer: D&C or Misoprostol? 

If you’re not able to take misoprostol, you may be wondering if a dilation and curettage (D&C) is a better option. Unfortunately, D&Cs also come with serious risks, including:

Asherman’s Syndrome

Asherman’s Syndrome is a condition where scar tissue builds up inside the uterus[5]. Women who have had multiple D&Cs are at greater risk of developing Asherman’s Syndrome. In the first trimester, up to 13% of women develop the condition after a D&C. For women who have late-term abortions, the risk jumps to 30%[6]

Cervical Damage

The cervix can be torn during a D&C. The provider may have to administer medicine or stitch the wound to stop the bleeding[7].

 

Uterine Perforation 

The surgical tools used in a D&C may accidentally poke a hole in the uterus. The wound may be able to heal on its own, but if an organ is damaged, you may need surgery to treat it[7].

Explore Your Options at Pathway Health Clinic 

An unplanned pregnancy comes with a lot of overwhelming choices. Even one choice can feel like one too many. You don’t have to take this next step alone! Pathway Health Clinic is a safe, confidential place to explore your pregnancy options at your own pace. We’re here to help you make an informed and empowered decision. 

Give us a call at (760) 945-4673 or request an appointment online today. All services are confidential and free of charge! 

Please be aware that Pathway Health Clinic does not provide or refer for abortion services. 

Sources

  1. FDA. (2023, September 1). Questions and Answers on Mifeprex. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/questions-and-answers-mifepristone-medical-termination-pregnancy-through-ten-weeks-gestation 
  2. Schreiber, C. A., Creinin, M. D., Atrio, J., Sonalkar, S., Ratcliffe, S. J., & Barnhart, K. (2018, June 7). Mifepristone Pretreatment for the Medical Management of Early Pregnancy Loss. The New England Journal of Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29874535/  
  3. Krugh, M., & Maani, C. V. (2023, April 21). Misoprostol. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539873/ 
  4. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2023, February 1). Misoprostol (Oral Route) Side Effects. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/misoprostol-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20064805?p=1 
  5. Asherman’s Syndrome. Cleveland Clinic. (2022, January 8). Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16561-ashermans-syndrome 
  6. Smikle, C., Yarrarapu, S. N. S., & Khetarpal, S. (2023, July 24). Asherman Syndrome. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448088/    
  7. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021, October 19). Dilation and Curettage (D&C). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dilation-and-curettage/about/pac-20384910
Four Tips When Looking for an Abortion in Vista, California

When facing an unplanned pregnancy, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed by a lot of emotions, including negative ones. These initial negative emotions are common for all women, including women planning to become pregnant. We want you to know you are not alone.

Often due to your relationship status, or lack thereof, finances, career, or simply bad timing, you feel unsupported or unable to achieve your goals and be pregnant, which is why you may find yourself searching for abortion options in California.

Before you make an abortion decision, we want to encourage you to seek out these four abortion tips:

  • Get testing done:

Before you book an abortion appointment, it’s essential to confirm your pregnancy with a pregnancy test and ultrasound. An ultrasound will confirm that the pregnancy is located within the uterus, detect a heartbeat, and determine the gestational age of your pregnancy. You will need to know how far along you are if you’re considering abortion because abortion types are determined by how far along you are in your pregnancy.

  • Talk to a medical professional:

Talking through a procedure with a medical professional who has your best interest in mind is always a good idea. Having answers to what the procedure will be like, the risks, and how long the recovery process matters because this is your health, and your health is essential! In addition, understanding what happens during an abortion will help you make an informed decision. 

  • Check the clinics in your area:

It’s always a good idea to do a clinic check before you make an appointment. It’s smart to look at the reviews and research any issues they may have had recently.

  • Get affordable care:

Where can you find affordable care? Why not come to Pathway Health Clinic? All of our services are at no cost and confidential. Additionally, we can do a pre-abortion screening in which you will get a pregnancy test and ultrasound (if you’re far enough along), as well as be able to speak with a nurse and a trained staff member to discuss all your options. Although we do not refer or provide abortions, we can help you figure out your next best step.

You don’t have to walk this journey alone; we are here for you. At Pathway Health Clinic, YOU MATTER. Call 760.945.4673 to make your appointment today.

Facing an Unplanned Pregnancy in College

An unplanned pregnancy can be overwhelming especially when it happens in college. Even though it may feel like it, your life is not over. You are not alone and you have options available.  It may not be the exact path that you thought you would follow, but everyday life and responsibilities do carry on. You can still finish your college degree.

One of the biggest fears for women in college is exposing this unplanned pregnancy to their friends and family. Additionally, not being able to continue their college education. 

What are my pregnancy options?

Pregnancy options are what you ultimately choose to do with your pregnancy when you are not pregnant anymore, or decide that you no longer want to be pregnant. Every pregnant woman has three pregnancy options- in alphabetical order- they are abortion, adoption, and parenting.

But what do each of those options mean?

Abortion- abortion is an option to end the pregnancy. You can have a medical abortion or a surgical abortion.

Adoption- Placing for adoption means that the baby will be born, but it will not be raised by its biological parents. You can have an open adoption, a semi-open adoption, or closed adoption.

Parenting- Parenting means that the baby will be born, and the biological parents will also raise the child.

While these options may seem simple, they are complex and oftentimes emotionally difficult.

There are community resources outside your college campus that can help provide no-cost pregnancy testing and are 100% confidential.  At Pathway Health Clinic, we respect your privacy and do not report your visit to anyone unless you have provided us with written consent and authorization. All our Advocates and Licensed Medical Professionals can help you explore all your options in a safe, confidential, judgment-free way.

To make an appointment, call us at 760-945-4673. If you are in a crisis, you can text our 24/7 crisis text line at 760-208-8811 and an advocate will respond. We are here to help.

You asked, We answered Vista!

Your unplanned pregnancy might have you nervous and not knowing what to expect. While you are figuring out your pregnancy options, and possibly putting an abortion plan together you can schedule an appointment for a NO COST pregnancy test to confirm your pregnancy and discuss your options with our licensed medical professionals. The information below can help you by answering some of the most frequently asked questions, women, like you have been searching about in the North County San Diego area.

  • Will Pathway Health Clinic tell anyone that I came in for a pregnancy test or information about abortion in California?

We are here for YOU. You do not have to worry about anyone finding out what options you are considering when you make an appointment with us. When you are here your privacy is protected and everything you share with us is completely confidential. Our staff will accommodate your specific needs for privacy and communication from the moment you contact us. We will never call, text, or email you anything without your consent.

  • I’m a minor- do I need to have an adult or parent with me if I am considering abortion in  California?

At your appointment, you do NOT need to have an adult, parent, or guardian with you. Again, we are here for YOU. We are able to get you the information you need to assess the situation, make an informed decision, and decide your next steps. However, of course, you can bring someone with you to your appointment if that makes you more comfortable! Even if you are a minor we are still able to offer you a NO COST pregnancy test. At your appointment, you can talk to a licensed medical professional about your pregnancy options- including abortion. We can even accommodate your school schedule if you are a student, so please let us know when making an appointment. We are a safe place for you to gather all the information for your specific situation, so our staff will never pressure you into any decision regarding your pregnancy or abortion.

  • Will appointments show up on insurance paperwork that comes in the mail or email?

Our best asset, next to the compassionate and high-quality care we offer, is that all of our services are NO COST to you- meaning we don’t collect insurance information at all. Because of generous supporters in Vista, you have access to medical professionals that are here to help you navigate pregnancy and abortion decisions. We will never contact you without your consent.

We are here for YOU! So, what are you waiting for? You don’t have to do this alone. Our pro-woman services are for every woman facing an unplanned pregnancy who is considering abortion in the North County San Diego area. To have more of your questions answered, make an appointment or call us at 760-945-4673. We are here to help.

Is Pathway Health Clinic right for you?

  • You’re pregnant and simply don’t want to be. 

If you’re experiencing an unplanned pregnancy and looking for options in Vista, CA, there are definitely some steps you want to take to ensure you have the best plan for you. At Pathway Health Clinic we can help discuss your options in a safe environment.

  • You don’t want anything to show up on your insurance statement about your pregnancy.  

Many women ask, “Will abortion show up on my insurance?” They’re worried about something showing up in the mail that might tip their parents off to their unplanned pregnancy. Because all of our services are free, you’ll never have to worry about insurance even knowing you came to see us. 

  • You need a private place in Vista to discuss the abortion pill without any pressure or bias. 

We can talk through those details with you at your appointment with our licensed medical staff so you can know exactly what you can expect in the days that lead up to and following taking the abortion pill.  

If you have additional questions about your options, we encourage you to explore the “Options Education” tab on our website or call us to make an appointment to discuss your options. At Pathway Health Clinic, we have Advocates and Licensed Medical Professionals who can help you explore all of your options in a safe, confidential, judgment-free way.

To make an appointment, call us at 760-945-4673. If you are in a crisis, you can text our 24/7 crisis text line at 760-208-8811 and an advocate will respond. We are here to help.

Pregnancy Myths in the Military

Upon joining a branch of service or marrying into the military, moving away from all your friends and family is always a huge adjustment. So, what happens when you or someone close to you think you may be pregnant?

One of the first things we do when we are faced with any situation is we turn to the internet to research what to do next. The internet can provide us with a ton of helpful information but it can also lead us to read into the myths of the dark web and cause unnecessary anxiety in our thoughts. 

So what are the most common myths related to pregnancy and the military?

Pregnancy Myth 1: Military life is incompatible with having a family:

This is a false statement. The military is a very family-oriented organization. From battalion family fun days to community housing events; the military focuses on the families of those who serve. According to the Department of Defense, 52% of the military is made up of families, married or single and raising children, which is 4 % higher than the national average 48%.

Pregnancy Myth 2: You get penalized if you get pregnant:

This statement is false. Just like if you were working in the civilian workplace, their are certain rules to follow in the workplace to maintain a safe and healthy pregnancy. The military puts you on light duty after you reach a certain point in your pregnancy. The military has amazing groups such as Baby Boot Camp. In this program the Navy Relief Society helps parents budget for baby, learn basic child safety and give out baskets full of newborn goodies. Your command will usually allow you or your spouse to take time off of work to attend these life skill classes.

Pregnancy Myth 3: Once I have my baby I have to return right back to Active Duty!

This statement is false. According to the Department of Defense, military women have better maternity leave options than civilian working moms. The DOD policy is the military women get 12 weeks of paid maternity leave. However, each branch of service has additional leave which can be up to 20 weeks of paid leave. The civilian law (Family Medical Leave Act) provides for up to 12 weeks for employers to allow their female employees during pregnancy.

Pregnancy Myth 4: My spouse will not receive paternity leave.

This statement is also false. Married fathers on active duty can get up to 10 days of paternity leave. The father must take those within 60 days of the child’s birth.

  If you think you or someone you know are pregnant, there are community resources outside Camp Pendleton that can help provide no-cost pregnancy testing and are 100% confidential.  At Pathway Health Clinic, we respect your privacy. We do not report your visit to command or Tricare unless you have provided us with written consent and authorization. All our Advocates and Licensed Medical Professionals can help you explore all your options in a safe, confidential, judgment-free way.

To make an appointment, call us at 760-945-4673. If you are in a crisis, you can text our 24/7 crisis text line at 760-208-8811 and an advocate will respond. We are here to help.

I am in College, What Are My Pregnancy Options?

Being a college student comes with a lot of responsibilities and can sometimes be stressful. What happens if in addition to college responsibilities you find out you may be pregnant?  

There are so many factors to consider. Each person’s circumstances are extremely personal to their situation. One thing every woman who is pregnant has in common is pregnancy options.

What are my pregnancy options?

Pregnancy options are what you ultimately choose to do with your pregnancy when you are not pregnant anymore, or decide that you no longer want to be pregnant. Every pregnant woman has three pregnancy options- in alphabetical order- they are abortion, adoption, and parenting. 

But what do each of those options mean?

Abortion- abortion is an option to end the pregnancy. You can have a medical abortion or a surgical abortion.

Adoption- Placing for adoption means that the baby will be born, but it will not be raised by its biological parents. You can have an open adoption, a semi-open adoption, or closed adoption.

Parenting- Parenting means that the baby will be born, and the biological parents will also raise the child. 

While these options may seem simple, they are complex and oftentimes emotionally difficult. 

If you have additional questions about your options, we encourage you to explore the “Options Education” tab on our website or call us to make an appointment to discuss your options. At Pathway Health Clinic, we have Advocates and Licensed Medical Professionals who can help you explore all of your options in a safe, confidential, judgment-free way. 

To make an appointment, call us at 760-945-4673 or walk-in during clinic hours. If you are in a crisis, you can text our 24/7 crisis text line at 760-208-8811 and an advocate will respond. We are here to help.