There are two main categories of abortion – medical (the abortion pill) and surgical. Both come with risks and side effects and are available at different times throughout pregnancy.
Keep reading to learn more about each kind and various factors to consider before making your decision.
Medical Abortion
Women in the first 70 days of pregnancy may be eligible for a medical abortion, also called the abortion pill. The medical abortion process utilizes two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol.
First, mifepristone will be administered by the abortion provider to stop the pregnancy from absorbing progesterone, the hormone that is essential in allowing the fetus to grow and develop.
Misoprostol is provided to the patient and taken at home between 24 to 48 hours after taking mifepristone. Misoprostol is used to expel the fetal tissue from the uterus through a process of contractions and bleeding.
Surgical Abortion Procedures
Surgical abortions come in different forms depending on the gestational age of your pregnancy. Keep reading to better understand the various surgical abortion procedures.
First-Trimester Surgical Abortions
Suction Curettage abortions are available in the first trimester (or 12 to 13 weeks of pregnancy). In this procedure, the cervix is dilated to allow a plastic tube to be inserted into the uterus. The tube is connected to a suctioning device which will pull apart and remove the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.
The abortion provider will then use a curette tool to ensure all of the tissue has been removed from the uterus, as retained fetal tissue can cause infection, sepsis, or hemorrhaging.
Second-Trimester Surgical Abortions
Due to the developed stage of pregnancy in the second trimester, a more invasive procedure is required.
In a Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) abortion procedure, the abortion provider will dilate the cervix and remove the pregnancy tissue, including the fetus and placenta, using forceps and other tools.
What Are the Side Effects and Risks Related to Abortion?
It’s important to note that abortion is a serious medical procedure and may be accompanied by side effects and health risks.
Women taking the abortion pill may encounter nausea, fever, chills, dizziness, diarrhea, weakness, vomiting, and headaches.
In addition to these common side effects, health risks include infection, sepsis, and hemorrhaging.
Health risks related to surgical abortions may include infection, prolonged bleeding, uterine perforation, and injury to the cervix.
Is Abortion Right for Me?
At Pathways Pregnancy Resource Center, we believe women considering abortion deserve access to important information regarding their pregnancy and the options available to them.
To make an informed choice for your pregnancy, we recommend visiting our clinic to receive free medical pregnancy testing, an ultrasound scan, and a consultation.
During your appointment, you’ll learn about the location, age, and viability of your pregnancy, as well as the other options and resources available to you. With this information, you’ll be empowered to make the best choice for you and your future.
Schedule your free appointment today!