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Understanding Abortion
If you are considering abortion, having accurate, complete medical information is an important part of making a decision that is right for you. At Hope Pregnancy Resource Center, we provide honest, factual information about abortion procedures, potential side effects, risks, and complications, without pressure or judgment.
Hope Pregnancy Resource Center does not perform or refer for abortions.
Two Types of Abortion
There are two primary categories of abortion: medical abortion and surgical abortion. The method that may apply depends largely on how far along your pregnancy is, which is one reason a limited OB ultrasound is an important step before making any decision.
Medical Abortion (Abortion Pill)
Medical abortion, commonly referred to as the abortion pill, involves two drugs taken in sequence. The FDA has approved this method for use through the tenth week of pregnancy.
The first drug, mifepristone, works by blocking progesterone, a hormone necessary for the pregnancy to continue, which causes the uterine lining to break down. The second drug, misoprostol, is taken 24 to 48 hours later and causes the uterus to contract and expel the fetus and related tissue through abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
Heavy bleeding and cramping are expected parts of the process and are typically more intense than a normal menstrual period. Some women describe the pain as significantly stronger than menstrual cramps. Bleeding may include the passage of large clots and can last several weeks.
Common side effects include:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Abdominal cramping
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Chills or fever
- Headache
Medical abortion also carries potential, severe risks:
- Heavy or prolonged bleeding
- An incomplete abortion, which may require additional medical treatment
- Infection
- Fever
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is an invasive procedure performed in a clinic or hospital setting to remove a fetus from the uterus. The process typically begins with dilating the cervix using specialized instruments. Once the cervix is dilated, the abortion provider uses suction, medical instruments, or a combination of both to remove the fetus and surrounding tissue. The procedure may involve local anesthesia, sedation, or other forms of pain management.
Potential risks associated with surgical abortion include:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Injury to the cervix
- Scar tissue formation in the uterus, which may affect future fertility or menstrual cycles
- Infection
Making an Informed Decision
Whatever you are considering, you deserve to make that decision with a clear understanding of what each option involves. At Hope Pregnancy Resource Center, our advocates are available to answer your questions, provide medically accurate information, and talk through whatever is on your mind at your pace.
