An unexpected pregnancy may invite questions, especially about your options. You may have heard about abortion and are considering this decision.
Abortion is the only option that terminates a pregnancy. Understanding the different procedures available to you and what you can expect is essential. We’ll outline the methods below.
All About Medical Abortion
The FDA allows the drugs for a medical abortion during the first 70 days of a woman’s pregnancy only. It uses two drugs, mifepristone, and misoprostol, to end the pregnancy. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, which is a hormone that sustains the pregnancy. Misoprostol causes uterine contractions and expels the pregnancy from the uterus.
You may be wondering whether this procedure is painful. Though every woman’s pain tolerance level differs, you can expect to experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding after taking the medications. You may also have:
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Nausea
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Vomiting
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Fever
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Chills
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Diarrhea
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Headache
Though the likelihood of major complications is low, there are risks you should take into account, including:
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Infection
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Fever
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Digestive system discomfort
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Heavy and prolonged bleeding
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An ongoing pregnancy (if the procedure doesn’t work)
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Incomplete abortion, which may require a surgical abortion procedure
If you experience signs of something more serious, such as heavy bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, or a fever lasting more than 24 hours, visit your nearest emergency room immediately.
When is Surgical Abortion Performed?
Surgical abortion is performed later in pregnancy and uses medication, surgical instruments, and/or a suctioning technique to remove the pregnancy. Abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding can result from this procedure, but there are other risks you should know about:
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Infection
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Scar tissue on the uterine wall
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Damage to the cervix
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Perforation of the uterus
Though the likelihood of developing these are rare, it’s essential to be aware of them. You are more likely to develop complications after a surgical abortion if the abortion provider performs the procedure in unsanitary conditions or if you are farther along.
You must do your research before any abortion procedure so that you stay informed.
Before an Abortion
Before making a pregnancy decision, we strongly recommend that you confirm your pregnancy with an obstetric ultrasound and receive options counseling. These services ensure you learn critical details about your pregnancy’s health and receive the information you deserve.
Gianna’s House offers free, self-administered pregnancy testing and pregnancy counseling. Our peer counselors are here to give you the trustworthy, fact-based information you need. Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate your unexpected pregnancy. There is hope here!
Gianna’s House provides a safe environment with a warm, comfortable setting where privacy and confidentiality are top priorities. We offer a holistic approach to helping women. Our services are available at no cost to you because we are a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization. This facility is not a licensed medical facility. We do not offer, recommend or refer for abortions or abortifacients; therefore, we receive no financial gain from your decision. We are committed to providing accurate information about pregnancy options, abortion procedure risks and alternatives, and post-abortion support. All of our advertising and communications are truthful, honest, and accurately describe the services we offer.