When contemplating abortion, you may want to know how it can affect your body. Abortion can affect you physically, and you’re at risk of developing an incomplete abortion, infection, and more. Keep reading to learn about all the physical risks of abortion as you make a pregnancy decision.
The Two Types of Abortion
1. Medical Abortion
The first type of abortion is a series of two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone and prevents the embryo from staying implanted and growing. Misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
Physical Risks of Medical Abortion
The Mayo Clinic shares possible risks of medical abortion, including the following:
- 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
2. Surgical Abortion
A surgical abortion is more likely to be done in a later-term pregnancy and is much more invasive. Typically, a surgical abortion involves anesthesia, dilation of the cervix, and surgical instruments.
Physical Risks of Surgical Abortion
The Mayo Clinic shares some of the risks of surgical abortion, including:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
- Heavy bleeding
- Cramping
Before An Abortion Procedure
It’s important to safeguard your health by taking steps to confirm your pregnancy and determine your options.
Receive free pregnancy testing and an ultrasound at Hope House Women’s Clinic. During a pregnancy testing appointment, you will meet with one of our nurses, who will walk you through the test. If it’s positive, you will then be eligible for an ultrasound. An ultrasound will determine how far along you are, alert you to potential complications, and confirm your options.
Schedule your free and confidential appointment today to get the clarity you need.