With abortion, there are major risks involved. No matter which type of abortion you may qualify for, there are risks to your health to consider.
Risks of Both Types of Abortion
The risks of abortion vary a bit depending on the type of abortion: medical or surgical. In the first trimester, medical abortion is done and is only recommended for women up to 70 days gestation. Otherwise, a surgical abortion procedure may be required.
Medical Abortion
Also called ‘the abortion pill,’ medical abortion involves two powerful drugs that work together to terminate a pregnancy
First, Mifepristone blocks the womb from absorbing progesterone, causing the uterus to thin and preventing the embryo from growing. Secondly, Misoprostol makes the uterus contract and removes the pregnancy through the vagina.
Risks of Medical Abortion
According to the Mayo Clinic, the risks of medical abortion include:
- 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
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortions involve anesthesia, dilation (opening) of the cervix, and surgical instruments at a medical clinic.
If you are pregnant between 11 and 13 weeks, a D & C (dilation and curettage) is done using a vacuum and scraping tool to remove the pregnancy. If you are more than 13 weeks pregnant, a D & E (dilation and evacuation) abortion is done.
Risks of Surgical Abortion
According to the Mayo Clinic, the risks of surgical abortion include:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
- Heavy bleeding
- Cramping
Your First Steps
It’s important to know the details about your pregnancy before moving forward with an abortion. Confirm your pregnancy with lab-quality pregnancy testing and receive an ultrasound referral with a positive test to determine your options.
An ultrasound reveals the location of your pregnancy and whether it’s a healthy, viable pregnancy.
Schedule a free and confidential appointment today to confirm your pregnancy and learn more about your pregnancy options.