Get accurate information about the types of abortion procedures that end a pregnancy so you can make an informed decision. This is a serious medical decision, so it’s important to know the facts and consider all of your options.
If you’re unsure of how an abortion procedure works and what it entails, we are here to inform you about both types of abortion procedures along with the potential risks.
How Does Medical Abortion Work?
Medical abortion is done in the first trimester of pregnancy through two different drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone blocks progesterone, which sustains the pregnancy and prevents the embryo from developing. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the embryo through the vagina.
If you go about a medical abortion, you may experience risks that come with this procedure, including:
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Incomplete abortion (may need to be followed by a surgical procedure to remove the remaining pregnancy tissue)
What Happens in a Surgical Abortion?
Surgical abortion is done later in pregnancy, using medication, surgical instruments, and suctioning tools to remove the fetus from the uterus, which can be an invasive process. Common risks to consider with a surgical abortion include the following:
- Infection
- Damage to the cervix
- Perforation of the uterus
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
A Pre-Abortion Assessment
At our Center, we offer a Pre-Abortion Assessment so that you can be fully informed about your pregnancy options and what each would entail. During your appointment, we will provide you with a free, lab-quality pregnancy test and a limited ultrasound to determine whether a pregnancy is located within the uterus and detect a fetal heartbeat. Though we do not perform or refer for abortions at our Center, we are here as a first step so you can get the facts prior to a pregnancy decision.
At your appointment, one of our options counselors can discuss with you the different types of abortion, what to expect, and the associated risks. When considering an abortion, it’s important to take your health and safety into consideration by making sure you are completely informed about your pregnancy.
At A Women’s Pregnancy Center, we’re here to help women sort through their questions and concerns. Discuss all pregnancy options with one of our trained options counselors today to receive clarity along your journey.
Schedule a free and confidential appointment. You are not alone.