There are two types of abortion: surgical and medical (also referred to as the “abortion pill”). However, the type of abortion you’re eligible for depends on many different factors.
If you’re considering abortion, it’s essential to learn all you can to protect your health and ensure that you make an informed decision.
Surgical Abortion
Abortion providers perform surgical abortions in a clinic or hospital setting. It involves dilating (opening) the cervix so that medical devices (such as suction, scraping tools, and forceps, which may be used later in pregnancy) can enter the uterus to terminate and remove the pregnancy.
The risks of surgical abortion include:
- Perforation of the uterus (which happens when the medical instruments poke a hole in your uterus)
- Uterine scarring
- Cervical damage
- Infection
Medical Abortion (The Abortion Pill)
Medical abortion involves taking two different, powerful drugs at home. These drugs work together to terminate the pregnancy and then expel it from the uterus through the vagina.
After taking the drugs, you will experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. Some women have reported that the pain is unexpectedly severe.
There are also risks to consider, including:
- Incomplete abortion
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Importance of an Ultrasound
Medical abortion is only FDA-approved through the first ten weeks of pregnancy, so it’s essential to know the gestational age of your pregnancy before seeking an abortion.
Getting an ultrasound is an effective way to learn the gestational age of your pregnancy, and it can also identify the location of your pregnancy—which is essential for ruling out a potentially life-threatening ectopic pregnancy.
Next Steps
We understand the stress you’re feeling as you navigate your pregnancy options. And we’re here for you.
We offer free, limited ultrasounds and a safe space to ask questions. And while we do not provide or refer for abortions, we’re here to provide medically accurate information about all your options.
You’re not alone in this. Contact us today.