Medical and surgical abortion are the two main types of abortion procedures.
- Medical: a drug-induced abortion that causes the termination of pregnancy via the abortion pill.
- Surgical: uses surgical methods to terminate a pregnancy and manually extract the fetus and tissue.
How Does Medical Abortion Take Place?
This type of abortion utilizes two drugs called Mifepristone and Misoprostol. This drug combination is also known as the abortion pill.
- Mifepristone is used first and causes the embryo to become detached from the uterine lining where it’s sustained.
- Next, Misoprostol is taken and used to cause labor-like contractions. When this occurs, the body expels the embryo and related pregnancy tissue through the vagina.
How Does Surgical Abortion Take Place?
There are two types of surgical abortions. One might be chosen over another depending on your health history, currently used medications, pregnancy’s gestational age, and other medical factors.
- Dilation and curettage (D&C): use surgical instruments or medication to dilate the cervix and a curette (a sharp tool or suction device) to remove and terminate the pregnancy.
- Dilation and Evacuation (D&E): use a combination of a D&C, vacuum aspiration, and surgical instruments like forceps to remove and end the pregnancy.
What Should I Do Before An Abortion?
As with any serious procedure, you should discuss your current health, health history, and currently used medications with your doctor and have a firm understanding of all the risks and your options.
Protecting your health and wellness is important and deserves a little extra time to ensure your safety.
Confirming pregnancy with a quality test and ultrasound will also help you understand all your options.
Where Can I Get Answers?
Speaking with your local pregnancy center can be helpful. Here at Reach Out Pregnancy, we’re here for you and can help you find the clarity you need to move forward with the answers you need.Contact us today; all appointments and services are no-cost and always confidential.