The following is a description of important pre-abortion procedures. Sources for the information are also included. These procedures should be conducted by a licensed health care provider prior to having an abortion.

Voluntary and Informed Consent, South Dakota Codified Law 34-23A-10.1:

• To confirm pregnancy

Anemia: Reduced number of red blood cells or hemoglobin.

Ectopic pregnancy: Implantation of the fertilized ovum outside of its normal place in the uterine cavity. Locations include the abdomen, uterine (fallopian) tubes, and ovaries.

Fetal anatomy: The organs and structures inside the body of the fetus.

Gestational age: In fetal development, the number of completed weeks counting from the first day of the last normal menstrual period or as determined by ultrasound.

Hematocrit: A blood test to measure the volume of red blood cells.

Hemoglobin: A blood test to measure the ability of the red blood cells to carry oxygen to vital organs.

High frequency sound waves: Sound that has a higher frequency than humans can hear. The sound waves bounce off an object and produce an echo that can be seen on a screen.

Intrauterine environment: Refers to the placenta, amniotic sac and fluids surrounding the fetus.

Medical history: Information that details any medical concerns, illnesses, surgeries, etc. that have occurred prior to this event.

Psychosocial history: Information that details psychological or social events in your life.

Real time imaging: This type of ultrasound provides pictures of the fetus in motion.

Rh factor: A protein or marker on a red blood cell. If it is present, you are Rh +. If it is not present, you are Rh -.

Rhesus immunoglobulin: Solution of blood protein that contains Rh antibodies. This prevents sensitization of Rh-negative women who have been exposed to Rh positive red blood cells.