Facing an unexpected pregnancy can be overwhelming. If you’re considering abortion, it’s important to understand how each type of procedure works, including potential side effects and risks. The more informed you are, the more confident you can be in your next step.
Schedule a free and confidential appointment today to speak with a registered nurse and get the information you need. In the meantime, keep reading to learn more about abortion.
Understanding Abortion Procedures
There are two main types of abortion: medical abortion and surgical abortion. The method used depends on how far along the pregnancy is, so an essential first step is confirming your gestational age through an ultrasound.
Medical Abortion
Also known as the “abortion pill,” a medical abortion uses two drugs:
- Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for the pregnancy to continue. Without progesterone, the pregnancy will detach from the uterine lining and end.
- Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract, which expels the pregnancy. Bleeding and cramping will occur as the pregnancy is expelled.
This method is FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation, and taking abortion drugs after this timeframe is not recommended.
In addition to bleeding and cramping, the following side effects may occur:
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
It’s important to know that medical abortion also comes with risks. You should be aware of the following when considering your options:
- Digestive symptoms (i.e., upset stomach)
- Fever
- Infection
- Heavy, prolonged bleeding
- Incomplete abortion (the body does not release all the pregnancy tissue, potentially requiring surgical treatment)
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortions use suction, surgical tools, or dilation methods to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. The type of procedure depends on how far the pregnancy has progressed.
Side effects include mild cramping and spotting or light bleeding for several days. Additionally, several risks are associated with this procedure, and it’s critical to be aware of them:
- Perforation of the uterus (when a surgical tool pokes a hole in the uterus)
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
Confirming Your Pregnancy Matters
Before deciding on any pregnancy option, you should confirm how far along you are. Informed Choices Women’s Center offers medical-grade pregnancy testing administered by a nurse, followed by limited ultrasounds when appropriate. These services are designed to give you the clarity you need before making any decisions.
Schedule your pregnancy testing appointment today to speak with a registered nurse and learn more about your options. You can also call our Mountain Home location at 870-424-4673 or our Harrison location at 870-280-3169.
Informed Choices Women’s Center does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.