Abortion, like any medical procedure, carries risks. In order to make an informed choice, it’s essential to be aware of both the physical risks and the potential effects on your mental health.
There are various types of abortion procedures, including surgical and chemical abortions, each associated with different risks.
We offer no-cost abortion info consultation at our clinic, where you can learn more.
The Abortion Pill
A chemical abortion, also called an abortion pill, is a two-step procedure that is FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestational age.
The first drug, mifepristone, acts as an antiprogestin and blocks the pregnancy from receiving the progesterone hormone. After the pregnancy has ended, misoprostol is taken within 24-48 hours of the first drug. It induces uterine cramping to expel the fetus and pregnancy tissues.
Risks and Side Effects of the Abortion Pill
The Mayo Clinic lists the following potential risks of medical abortion:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
You can expect cramping in the stomach area and vaginal bleeding, as well as other side effects, including nausea, headache, diarrhea, and more.
Surgical Abortion
A surgical abortion is performed in a clinic to terminate a pregnancy by using suction and instruments. It often involves anesthesia during the process.
There are two different types of surgical procedures.
Dilation and curettage
Dilation and curettage (D&C) often occur earlier in pregnancy. This procedure involves opening up the cervix (also called dilation) so that medical tools can enter the uterus to remove the pregnancy via suction and scraping, as necessary.
Dilation and evacuation
Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) occur in the second trimester. While it involves opening the cervix (just like a D&C abortion), it needs other tools (like forceps) to remove the fetus since it is a larger size.
Risks and Side Effects of Surgical Abortion
According to the Mayo Clinic, typical side effects of surgical abortions are mild cramping, and spotting or light bleeding that can last a few days after the procedure.
The potential risks include:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
Will Abortion Affect My Mental Health?
According to the National Library of Medicine, “Both sides agree that… abortion is consistently associated with elevated rates of mental illness compared to women without a history of abortion.”
While the experience varies greatly for each woman, your mental well-being deserves consideration as you evaluate your decision.
Schedule a No-Cost Abortion Information Consultation
Learn more about your pregnancy with a no-cost ultrasound. Know what to expect. Consider the risks. At your consultation learn about the types of abortions as well as procedures, costs, and more in a compassionate, nonjudgemental space.
Contact us today for an appointment!