Chapter 7: The Cost of a Choice

"Ashley, I know this is a lot to take in, but I want to discuss your options with you," Dr. Smith said, as she turned off the ultrasound machine and helped Ashley sit up. "I want to make sure you know that you have choices, and we'll support you no matter what you decide." Ashley nodded, still feeling a mix of emotions. She had been hoping that Dr. Smith would bring up the topic of abortion. She had been thinking about it nonstop since finding out she was pregnant. "How much does an abortion cost?" Ashley asked, hoping she could afford it. She had been living paycheck to paycheck, and the thought of raising a child on her own was overwhelming. Dr. Smith's expression was sympathetic. "The cost of an abortion varies depending on the type of procedure and where you go. If you're early in your pregnancy, you may be able to get a medical abortion, which is usually less expensive. The cost can range from $500 to $2,000 or more." Ashley's heart sank. She had been hoping it would be less expensive. She didn't know if she could afford that. "What about financial assistance?" Ashley asked, hoping there were resources available to help her. Dr. Smith nodded. "There are organizations that provide financial assistance for abortion services. We can give you a list of resources to look into. Additionally, some clinics offer sliding scale fees based on your income." Ashley felt a glimmer of hope. Maybe she could afford it after all. "What's the difference between a medical abortion and a surgical abortion?" Ashley asked, trying to understand her options. "A medical abortion is a procedure that uses medication to terminate the pregnancy," Dr. Smith explained. "It's usually done in the early stages of pregnancy, and it's a non-invasive procedure. A surgical abortion, on the other hand, is a procedure that uses suction to remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus. It's usually done in a clinic or hospital setting." Ashley thought about her options, weighing the pros and cons of each. She knew she had to make a decision soon. "I think I want to get a medical abortion," Ashley said, trying to sound confident. Dr. Smith nodded. "That's a viable option. But before we proceed, I want to make sure you understand that this is a personal decision, and it's okay to take your time. We can schedule a follow-up appointment for you to discuss further and make a decision." Ashley nodded, feeling a sense of relief. She knew she had a tough decision ahead of her, but with Dr. Smith's support, she felt like she could face it.