Chemical Abortion
There are two types of abortion: chemical and surgical. If your pregnancy is 10 weeks or less, you qualify for a chemical abortion. This procedure uses drugs to end your pregnancy.
The abortion pill is a method of chemical abortion. You take two powerful drugs over a 24-48 hour period. The first drug blocks the “pregnancy” hormone known as progesterone. Progesterone thickens the lining of the uterus to accept a fertilized egg.
Once you’ve taken the first drug, the lining thins and prevents the fetus from staying implanted and growing. The second drug causes the uterus to contract and expel the fetus.
The potential side effects and risks:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Surgical Abortion
If you’ve been pregnant longer than 10 weeks, one option is a surgical abortion. There are various surgical methods depending on how far along your pregnancy is.
The first method involves dilation and curettage (D & C). Your cervix is dilated (opened), and a spoon-shaped instrument with a sharp edge or suction device is inserted to remove the fetus.
Other methods are known as dilation and evacuation (D & E) and dilation and extraction (D & X). The farther along your pregnancy is, the more invasive the procedures become, making the risks greater as well.
The potential risks:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Increased risk of future miscarriage
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
- Prolonged bleeding and cramping
Before Your Abortion
It’s essential to have a pre-abortion screening before you make an abortion appointment. You deserve to have more information on procedures, side effects, and potential risks.
We’re Your Best First Step
After receiving a free pregnancy test at our center, you’ll get the information you need from the ultrasound. You’ll learn if you’ve had a miscarriage, how long you’ve been pregnant, and where your pregnancy is located. Plus, you’ll have time to discuss all of your options. Contact us first!
