If you’re considering abortion, you may have questions about what actually takes place during the procedure. Medical and surgical abortions end a pregnancy in different ways, and each comes with its own side effects and risks.
Before deciding, it’s important to understand the procedure you’re considering and learn as much as you can about your pregnancy. Pathways Pregnancy Resource Center offers free, confidential appointments where you can ask questions and explore your options.
Schedule your visit today to speak with our team, and continue reading to learn more about how abortion ends your pregnancy.
How the Abortion Pill Works
Medical abortion, commonly called the abortion pill, uses two drugs. The FDA has approved this method through 10 weeks of gestation.
Mifepristone is taken first. It blocks progesterone, a hormone needed for a pregnancy to continue. This causes the uterine lining to thin and prevents the pregnancy from remaining attached and growing.
Misoprostol is taken afterward. It causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through the vagina. Vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping will occur during this part of the process.
Other possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills, and headache. Medical abortion also carries risks, including heavy or prolonged bleeding, infection, an ongoing pregnancy if the drugs do not work, and an incomplete abortion that may require further treatment.
How Surgical Abortion Works
A surgical abortion ends a pregnancy and removes it from the uterus. These procedures are performed in a medical setting and may use suction, medical instruments, or a combination of methods. The procedure used depends in part on how far the pregnancy has progressed.
Cramping and light bleeding or spotting can occur afterward for several days. Potential risks include infection, injury to the cervix, uterine perforation, and scar tissue within the uterus.
Your healthcare provider should explain the procedure, its potential risks, and what you can expect before and after it.
Gather More Information About Your Pregnancy
If abortion is one of the options you’re considering, knowing how far along you are is especially important because it can affect the procedure used.
An ultrasound can also determine where the pregnancy is located and whether the pregnancy is developing. These details can help identify concerns that require medical attention and better understand your situation.
Pathways Pregnancy Resource Center is here to provide a confidential place to ask questions and learn about your options, including parenting, adoption, and abortion. We also offer ultrasounds following a positive pregnancy test with us.
Schedule your free, confidential appointment today to get the information and support you need as you consider your decision.
*Pathways Pregnancy Resource Center does not provide or refer for abortions.
**All abortion information in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.