Abortion – maybe you’re considering this option as you face an unexpected pregnancy. Before making up your mind, you should know how it works and what the risks are. Each step you take in this journey makes an impact on your life moving forward – so it’s important to know what you’re walking into.
Medication Abortion
Also known as “the abortion pill” option, medication abortion involves taking two different drugs to end a pregnancy. Medication abortion is only for women who are up to 10 weeks pregnant (only known by an ultrasound)
Mifepristone (the first pill) blocks the womb from absorbing progesterone pregnancy hormone, causing the lining of the uterus to thin and prevent the embryo from implanting/growing. Misoprostol (the second pill) makes the uterus contract and removes the pregnancy through the vagina.
Potential risks of medical abortion:
- Heavy/prolonged bleeding
- Incomplete abortion – may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Surgical Abortion
The process of a surgical abortion is more invasive than medication abortion, as surgery is done to remove the contents of the pregnancy through the vagina. Doctors will use Anesthesia and surgical tools to dilate the cervix, remove the pregnancy, and clear the uterus.
Potential risks of surgical abortion:
- Damage to the womb/cervix
- Uterine perforation
- Heavy/excessive bleeding
- Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes
- Scarring of the inside of the uterus
- Risk for sterilization or complications with future pregnancies
We Can Help.
Though the choice is yours, we at Hope House Women’s Clinic are here for you. Get informed and educated about abortion and all your options from our team today. Confirm your pregnancy with us to know how far along you are and what your options are.
Schedule a free and confidential options consultation to learn more.