When considering abortion, it’s important to understand the two main types: medical abortion (commonly referred to as the “abortion pill”) and surgical abortion. The stage of your pregnancy is a key factor in determining which option you may be eligible for.
Medical Abortion (The Abortion Pill)
Medical abortion uses two powerful drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, to terminate a pregnancy. This method is typically self-administered at home without direct medical supervision.
Mifepristone is taken first. It blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for pregnancy. Misoprostol is taken next, usually within 24-48 hours. It induces cramping and contractions to expel the pregnancy through the vagina.
This process often involves significant vaginal bleeding and cramping in the stomach area, which can be intense for some women. It’s also possible to see the expelled embryo or fetus, which can be emotionally distressing.
Medical abortion is FDA-approved only for pregnancies up to 10 weeks gestation. Risks include incomplete abortion, which occurs when parts of the pregnancy remain in the uterus, potentially leading to prolonged bleeding, infection, or other serious health concerns.
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is performed in a clinical setting and can be done earlier in pregnancy but is more commonly associated with later stages.
This procedure involves dilating the cervix to allow medical instruments to enter the uterus and remove the pregnancy. Early in pregnancy, suction and scraping tools are used, while later-stage procedures may involve forceps for removing larger fetal tissue.
One of the significant risks of surgical abortion is uterine perforation, where a medical instrument punctures the uterus. This can lead to complications such as painful menstrual cycles, scarring, or even future infertility.
How Can I Protect My Health?
Before making any decisions, it’s essential to gather all the information you need to make an informed choice. At Hope For Life Pregnancy Center, we offer pregnancy counseling to help you better understand your options. Our compassionate team is here to answer your questions, provide support, and empower you to make the decision that’s best for you.
You don’t have to do this by yourself—contact us today for a confidential appointment. We’re here for you every step of the way.