When it comes to abortion, it’s important to understand the different types so you can make the best decision with your health in mind.
There are two main types of abortion:
- Medical
- Surgical
Make sure you talk with a trusted medical professional before making a decision about these serious medical procedures.
Medical Abortion
Medical abortion is a regimen of two drugs that work together to terminate a pregnancy.
The first drug, called mifepristone, blocks progesterone, a hormone essential to pregnancy. Once blocked, the uterine walls begin to thin, which causes the embryo to detach and ultimately causes fetal demise.
The second drug is called misoprostol, and it causes cramping and contractions. These labor-like contractions push the embryo and pregnancy tissue out of the uterus through the vagina.
There are risks associated with this type of abortion, and they can include:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is a more invasive technique used to terminate a pregnancy, and there are two main types: Dilation and curettage (D&C) and dilation and evacuation (D&E). They both use surgical techniques to end a pregnancy.
- D&C: Uses small instruments or medication to dilate the cervix. Then, a surgical instrument called a curette, which can be a sharp instrument or suction device, is used to remove uterine tissue.
- D&E: Usually includes a combination of vacuum aspiration, dilation, and curettage and uses surgical instruments (such as forceps).
The risks associated with this surgical procedure can be:
- Perforation of the uterus.
- Injury to the cervix
- Infection
- Hemorrhaging
You Have Options
Before deciding on the type of abortion procedure you may want, it’s important to determine if abortion is the best option.
You deserve to prioritize your health and well-being, and we can help you understand not just the risks associated with abortion but your other options as well.
We also provide free pregnancy testing and ultrasound so you can learn as much as possible about your pregnancy, which will determine your available options.
Contact us today so you can make an informed, empowered decision.