The Option of Abortion
Maybe you’ve struggled with the news that you’re pregnant. An unplanned pregnancy is overwhelming, a moment that can trigger fear and confusion about what to do next. If you’re exploring the option of abortion, we want to inform you about what abortion is and the risks involved. Every woman should know about every pregnancy option to make the best decision.
what are the different types of abortion?
Abortion is a procedure to terminate a pregnancy. There are two types of abortion procedures: medical and surgical abortion. Both come with different risks and side effects.
Medical abortion, also known as taking the abortion pill, uses drugs to terminate a pregnancy. This type of abortion is only for women up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Otherwise, you’ll have a surgical abortion.
In the abortion pill process, the first pill taken is called Mifepristone. This medication blocks the progesterone hormone which makes the lining of the uterus become thin and stops the embryo from implanting or growing. Misoprostol, the second drug, causes the uterus to contract and remove the embryo through the vagina.
Risks of medical abortion:
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
Surgical Abortion
This surgical procedure works to remove the fetus from the uterus through the vagina. A surgical abortion is normally done using suction or an instrument called a curet. Another type of surgical procedure is called Dilation and Curettage (D&C), where tissue from inside the uterus is removed. There are risks with all surgical abortion procedures.
Risks of surgical abortion:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Damage to the cervix
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Cramps
What’s Next?
You can safely and confidentially talk about your situation at Pathways Pregnancy Resource Center. Our professional and considerate team is here to help. We can sit down with you and discuss your questions about abortion or any other pregnancy option.
Schedule your no-cost and confidential appointment today.