Abortion is a serious pregnancy decision that you may be considering. Knowing the facts before moving forward with any final decision is essential. We’re here to help you gain the clarity you need.
Types of Abortion
Medical Abortion
Medical abortion uses two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, to terminate a pregnancy. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, while misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy. It’s important to note that the FDA only recommends medical abortion for pregnancies through 10 weeks. Choosing medical abortion after 10 weeks of pregnancy increases health risks and is not recommended.
Medical abortion can come with side effects of nausea, vomiting, chills, fever, headache, and diarrhea. Some risks of this procedure include:
- The body does not release all pregnancy tissue in the uterus, also called an incomplete abortion. This may require surgical abortion.
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work.
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding.
- Infection.
- Fever.
- Digestive symptoms such as upset stomach.
Surgical Abortion
A surgical abortion involves dilating (opening) the cervix (which leads to the uterus) and a combination of tools and suction. Multiple surgical instruments may be used to remove the pregnancy.
Though there are several types of surgical abortion procedures, they come with similar risks, including:
- Damage to the uterus or cervix
- Uterine perforation
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes
- Scarring of the inside of the uterus
- Reaction to the medicines or anesthesia, such as problems breathing
- Not removing all of the tissue, requiring another procedure
Before an Abortion
Safeguard your health by getting pregnancy confirmation and the answers you need. Begin with no-cost and confidential medical-grade pregnancy testing today.
For those who receive a positive pregnancy test with one of our RNs, we also offer ultrasounds to gain even more clarity. You can schedule a no-cost appointment to get started.