If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering abortion, learning all you can about the procedure is the most important thing you can do to protect your health. While every woman’s experience is unique, abortion is a permanent choice with physical and mental risks.
Read on to learn more about the different types of abortion. Or, if you want to talk to someone in person about your options, call Lilli Women’s Center at (216) 650-6133 for a free, confidential appointment with one of our caring team members.
Medical Abortion
Medical abortion, also known as the “abortion pill,” involves taking a series of two different drugs at home.
The first drug, mifepristone, works by blocking progesterone in your body. This hormone is necessary for nourishing and sustaining a pregnancy. Without progesterone, your pregnancy will be starved of nutrients and end.
Misoprostol is taken next. It causes your uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through your vagina. This drug will cause you to feel cramps and experience bleeding.
After taking these drugs, you may also experience certain side effects, including:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Diarrhea
- Fever/chills
- Vomiting
Medical abortion is only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is 10 weeks old or younger, so it’s essential to get an ultrasound before seeking an abortion. This harmless scan will reveal the age of your pregnancy and other important details you’ll need to stay safe.
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion involves dilating (opening) the cervix so medical instruments can enter your uterus to remove the pregnancy. This is usually done through suction or scraping.
Surgical abortion happens in a medical office. The main side effects are cramping and bleeding. The main associated risks include:
- Uterine perforation, which is when the medical device used during the abortion pokes a hole in the wall of the uterus
- Cervical damage
- Uterine scarring, which can cause painful menstrual periods and infertility
Next Steps
Facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel scary, but you’re not alone. We’re here for you and offer free pregnancy resources and information to help you decide what to do next.
If you’re considering an abortion, receiving an ultrasound beforehand is vital to ensure you stay safe. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment with one of our caring team members. They can give you an ultrasound and walk you through your options.
