If you have an unexpected pregnancy, you may be thinking about abortion as an option.
Keep in mind, though, that learning the facts about the different types of abortion, understanding the risks, and determining whether you are medically compatible is an important part of protecting your health.
Read on to learn more about abortion and the steps you can take to help you make the best decision. You can also visit LifeLine Pregnancy Center in Grover Beach for in-person support and early pregnancy services.
Types of Abortion
There are two types of abortion: medical and surgical.
Medical abortion, also commonly referred to as the abortion pill, uses two drugs to terminate a pregnancy. Women start by taking mifepristone, which blocks the hormone progesterone, preventing the fertilized egg from remaining attached to the uterine wall or growing further. This will terminate the pregnancy.
Then, about 24-48 hours later, women take misoprostol, which causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy and related tissue from the body through abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding.
Surgical abortion is an invasive medical procedure in which a woman’s cervix is dilated, and medical tools are inserted into the uterus to remove the pregnancy and any associated tissue. It uses a combination of suction and scraping to empty the uterus.
Health Risks
Both types of abortion have known risks and side effects that you will want to be aware of before deciding to pursue an abortion.
Medical abortion risks can include:
- Incomplete abortion (often requiring a follow-up surgical abortion)
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Nausea and vomiting
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Additionally, according to the FDA, a medical abortion should not be attempted after the 10th week of pregnancy.
The risks commonly associated with a surgical abortion are:
- Uterine perforation (Poking a hole in the uterus)
- Cervical damage
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall, which can lead to painful menstrual periods and infertility
- Infection
In addition to the physical risks and side effects, it’s also essential to understand the mental health risks and side effects associated with abortion.
These can include:
- Loss
- Grief
- Anxiety
- Sadness
- Depression
Important Steps Before an Abortion
Getting information and details about your pregnancy before deciding what action to take is crucial to protecting your health.
While at-home tests are usually very accurate, it is possible to get a false positive. That’s why confirming your pregnancy with an in-clinic pregnancy test can be an important first step.
An ultrasound scan is also recommended before deciding how to handle your pregnancy. This scan can give you crucial details like the age, viability, and location of your pregnancy—all important facts that will help determine your options.
It’s also important to know that different types of abortion may be unsafe due to pre-existing health conditions. Talking with your medical provider, who knows your medical history and any medication you are taking, can help protect your health and well-being.
Get the Help You Need
LifeLine Pregnancy Center is here to help you get the facts you need about your pregnancy.
We offer in-clinic pregnancy tests and a free referral to an on-site medical clinic for a limited ultrasound to give you all the details you need about your pregnancy.
Our trained staff can also discuss your options and answer any questions, empowering you to make the best decision for your body and future.
Contact us today to schedule your no-cost and confidential appointment.
