If you find yourself unexpectedly pregnant, it’s understandable that a lot may be going through your mind. Perhaps you’re concerned about finances or how your life may look different. You owe it to yourself no matter what you decide to find out all the facts first.
If you are considering abortion, take the time to learn about each type of abortion and the associated risks and details involved. What abortion method may be medically available depends on a variety of factors.
What is Medical Abortion?
The abortion pill method, also known as medical or medication abortion, is approved by the FDA for the termination of early pregnancies up to 10 weeks.
Medical abortion is actually a two-pill process, consisting of Mifeprex – a drug that blocks the hormone needed to maintain the pregnancy – and Misoprostol, a second drug that causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
Although it may seem easy and convenient, medical abortion is still a serious medical procedure that necessitates proper in-person follow-up care under the guidance of a physician. It is highly recommended to seek out personalized medical care, not only prior to the abortion to stay informed about potential complications but also following the process to ensure the abortion is complete and no further medical attention is needed.
What Are the Risks of Medical Abortion?
According to the Mayo Clinic, the following are potential physical risks associated with the abortion pill:
- Incomplete abortion
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
What is Surgical Abortion?
For terminations of pregnancies that are farther along, later than 10 weeks, a more involved in-clinic procedure known as surgical abortion is required.
While there are several methods of surgical abortion, the most common is a procedure known as dilation and evacuation. With this method the cervix is dilated with medication or medical instruments and suction is used to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. If the fetus is larger, the dilation & curettage abortion method would need to be done. The physician or provider uses medical instruments or medication to open (dilate) the cervix and then remove the pregnancy using a tool known as a curette to lightly scrape the uterus along with suction to remove the fetus and any remaining tissue..
Because this type of abortion is more involved and may require some type of sedation, the associated risks and monetary costs are typically significantly higher.
What Are the Risks of Surgical Abortion?
The following are potential physical risks of surgical abortion procedures, according to the Mayo Clinic:
- Perforation (tearing or puncture) of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
- Excessive bleeding
- Dizziness or fever
- Severe cramping
How Do I Know What Choice Is Best for Me?
As you navigate your pregnancy decision, including considering what type of abortion might be available, the best first step you can take is to confirm your pregnancy and receive an ultrasound with a medical professional. You can find out the answers to questions according to your unique health needs, including what options are medically necessary or available to you.
An ultrasound answers key questions such as, do you have a viable pregnancy, how far along you are in pregnancy – and as such, what options you may be eligible for – and what other medical complications may be present. For instance, if the pregnancy is not located in the uterus (a condition known as ectopic pregnancy), you would need to seek immediate medical attention outside of abortion care to resolve the situation and protect your health.
At First Care Clinic, our professional medical team can help you get the answers you need through an appointment at no cost to you. Get the personalized care you deserve and get your questions answered. Schedule your free appointment today.