Abortion is a major decision that can create significant physical and psychological consequences. If you have an unplanned pregnancy, ensure you’ve received the facts about this procedure.
Our volunteers will walk you through each procedure, as well as its side effects and risks, during an options information session.
Medical abortion
Medical abortion terminates an early viable pregnancy. The FDA has approved the use of mifepristone, the first abortion drug, through ten weeks gestation.
Two medications are used during a medical abortion procedure. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, and misoprostol causes uterine contractions and expels the pregnancy.
If you have a medical abortion, you will experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. Other side effects of this procedure include:
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Chills
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Though your likelihood of developing a medical abortion-related risk is low, it is possible. Some women have experienced the following:
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
- Heavy, prolonged bleeding
- Incomplete abortion (which may require surgical treatment)
- An ongoing pregnancy (if the medications don’t work)
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortions are typically performed later in pregnancy. These procedures use medications, surgical instruments, and/or suctioning to remove the pregnancy from the uterus.
As with medical abortion procedures, surgical abortion procedures also cause abdominal cramping and bleeding. But the risks can be severe and include:
- Uterine perforation
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Damage to the cervix
- Infection
It can be challenging to determine whether you are experiencing a typical side effect of abortion or a complication. But if you have concerning symptoms such as a worsening or high fever or are bleeding heavily enough that you need to change pads every hour, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Be proactive about your health when making a pregnancy decision. Confirm key pregnancy details with an obstetric ultrasound and review your options.
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Choices Family Resource Center provides the accurate, fact-based information you deserve.
Learn more about scheduling a no-cost, confidential options information appointment today.