If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy, you likely have questions. What follows covers two abortion procedures, medical and surgical, including how they work, what to expect, and what the risks are, so you have accurate information as you think through your options.
Before choosing any path, the first step is confirming the status of your pregnancy.
Reach Out Pregnancy provides no-cost support, including pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds, to help you understand your situation in a safe environment.
Reach out to schedule an appointment today.
Understanding Medical Abortion (The Abortion Pill)
A medical abortion is a non-surgical procedure that uses drugs to end an early pregnancy. This method is FDA-approved for use only through the first 10 weeks of gestation. It involves a two-step drug regimen:
- Mifepristone: The first drug blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for the pregnancy to continue. Without progesterone, the lining of the uterus begins to break down, causing the pregnancy to detach and end.
- Misoprostol: Taken 24 to 48 hours later, the second drug causes the uterus to contract and empty through vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping.
Medical abortion causes heavy bleeding and strong abdominal cramping. Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, and diarrhea. Potential risks to be aware of include incomplete abortion, which may require a follow-up surgical procedure, as well as infection or heavy hemorrhaging.
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is an invasive procedure performed to remove a pregnancy from the uterus. The process typically begins with dilating (opening) the cervix using medication or specialized instruments.
Once the cervix is dilated, an abortion provider uses suction, medical instruments, or a combination of both to remove the pregnancy and related tissue from the uterus. Surgical abortions are generally performed in a clinic or hospital setting and may involve local anesthesia, sedation, or other forms of pain management.
Potential side effects include spotting and cramping for several days following the procedure. Risks associated with surgical abortion include:
- Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes.
- Uterine perforation (accidental damage to the uterine wall).
- Cervical damage or scarring.
- Incomplete abortion
Why an Ultrasound is the Critical First Step
Regardless of which option you are considering, an ultrasound is essential before making a final decision. An ultrasound provides three key pieces of information:
- Viability: An ultrasound screens for a heartbeat to confirm the pregnancy is progressing. Up to one in four pregnancies end in natural miscarriage, which would make an abortion procedure unnecessary.
- Location: An ultrasound confirms the pregnancy is in the uterus. If the pregnancy is located outside the uterus, known as an ectopic pregnancy, it is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate hospital care.
- Gestational Age: An ultrasound measures the pregnancy to determine exactly how far along you are.
Reach Out for Support
Reach Out Pregnancy provides no-cost, confidential services to families throughout Indiana and Ohio. Our center provides a supportive space to explore all your options, abortion, adoption, and parenting, without pressure or judgment.
Please note that Reach Out Pregnancy does not provide or refer for abortions, but we are here to provide the accurate medical information and testing you need to take your next step with confidence.
Schedule your appointment today to speak with a compassionate advocate.