Abortion is a permanent decision that terminates a pregnancy, and it’s associated with certain risks, depending on the type of abortion involved.
If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering an abortion, you might be overwhelmed while thinking through your options. Learning as much as possible about each option will help you make a confident and informed decision.
Read on to learn more about how abortion works and the potential risks involved.
Types of Abortion
Medical Abortion
A medical abortion also called the “abortion pill,” involves taking two different drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol. These drugs work together to end the pregnancy and expel it from the uterus via cramping.
Medical abortion is only FDA-approved if your pregnancy is younger than ten weeks.
Surgical Abortion
A surgical abortion involves opening the cervix with medication or surgical instruments, so a medical tool can go into the uterus to remove the pregnancy.
A surgical abortion is typically confirmed when the pregnancy is over ten weeks, and a medical abortion isn’t an option.
Risks of Abortion
Both medical and surgical abortions are associated with risks. The risks of a medical abortion include:
- Incomplete abortion (which is when parts of the pregnancy remain in the uterus)
- Infection (which could become life-threatening)
- Hemorrhaging (which is when you lose too much blood)
The risks associated with surgical abortion include:
- Uterine perforation (this is usually due to damage from the medical instrument)
- Infection (which could become life-threatening)
- Cervical scarring (which can cause painful menstrual periods)
Next Steps
While you’re likely feeling many difficult emotions right now, it’s important to get all the facts about your options before deciding. At Open Door Pregnancy Center, we offer free pregnancy resources and a listening ear to help you make the right choice. Contact us to make a confidential, no-cost appointment today.
The Open Pregnancy Center believes you have a right to accurate information from a resource that will not profit from your pregnancy decision. We are an alternative resource that does not perform or refer for abortion. The information on this website is for educational purposes only.