Maybe you’ve heard that abortion is a quick and simple process. It can be more complicated than women expect. If you’re contemplating abortion, you should know full information as well as the potential risks.
At the Women’s Clinics Maryland, we believe in educating women about all their options so they can make an informed pregnancy decision. Without the facts, it’s hard to know how to move forward.
What’s Before Abortion?
Even if you got positive pregnancy test results – you’ll need to confirm your at-home pregnancy test with a lab-quality one. An ultrasound is also necessary to confirm if the pregnancy is viable or not, so you know if you need an abortion.
Schedule a free and confidential pregnancy confirmation appointment to get the answers you need to take your next step.
Different Types of Abortion
1. Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is more invasive than a medication abortion, as surgical abortions require local or general anesthesia and surgical instruments to remove the pregnancy. An in-clinic procedure is performed beginning by dilating the cervix. If you are 11-13 weeks pregnant, a D&C (dilation and curettage) abortion procedure is done.
If you are over 13 weeks pregnant, a doctor will dilate your cervix further due to the larger-sized fetus. A D&E (dilation and evacuation) abortion procedure is done at this time. Some of the surgical instruments used in this procedure include forceps, a vacuum, and a scraping tool to remove every part of the pregnancy.
Potential Risks of Surgical Abortion:
According to the Mayo Clinic, risks of surgical abortion include:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
- Heavy bleeding
- Cramping
2. Medication Abortion
The abortion pill process is also called medication abortion, where two different drugs are taken to terminate a pregnancy. It’s not a one-step process and you’re done. Two very powerful drugs are taken over a 24 to 48 hour period.
The first drug, Mifepristone, is used in the abortion pill method. It blocks the womb from absorbing progesterone and thins the lining of the uterus which ends the pregnancy. The second drug, Misoprostol, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through the vagina.
Potential Risks of Medication Abortion:
According to the Mayo Clinic, risks of medication abortion include:
- Incomplete abortion (may need to be followed by surgical abortion)
- An ongoing unwanted pregnancy (if the procedure doesn’t work)
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Digestive system discomfort
- Infection
- Fever
Abortion PIll Reversal is for women who begin a medication abortion and quickly change their minds and wish to continue the pregnancy. If an ultrasound reveals the pregnancy is viable, we are able to provide medication to help ensure continuation in the majority of cases. Contact us asap if this is the case and we can provide a free ultrasound and free medication as needed.
Is Abortion for you?
After confirming your pregnancy, be informed about all your pregnancy options, including more about abortion. You owe it to yourself to understand each of them and get your questions answered.
Talk to our team today about abortion and your other options. Schedule a free and confidential appointment. No insurance is needed and same-day appointments are available.