Thinking About Abortion?
We know this decision is difficult – any pregnancy decision is. Know that you are not alone. Be informed and further educated about abortion and the risks. You deserve to be fully aware of each procedure and what comes along with each type of abortion. If you still have questions, contact us to learn more about your options and get answers.
Types Of Abortion Procedures
Medical Abortion
Also known as the medication abortion, this type of abortion is approved by the FDA for women 10 weeks pregnant or earlier.
The first drug is called Mifepristone. It works to block the uterus from absorbing the hormone progesterone – referred to as the “pregnancy hormone.” Mifepristone causes the lining of the uterus to thin and prevents the pregnancy from implanting or growing.
The second drug, Misoprostol, terminates the pregnancy by causing the uterus to contract, cramp, and expel the pregnancy through the vagina. Medical abortion comes with a higher risk of an incomplete abortion, which would require a follow-up surgical abortion.
Risks of Medical Abortion
- Incomplete abortion (may need to be followed by surgical abortion)
- An ongoing unwanted pregnancy (if the procedure doesn’t work)
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Digestive system discomfort
- Infection
- Fever
Surgical Abortion
If you are passed the time frame for receiving the medication abortion or if the medication abortion failed you will need a surgical procedure. A surgical abortion is more invasive than medical abortion and is performed in a medical clinic.
Depending on how far along you are will determine if you have vacuum aspiration, dilation and curettage, or dilation and evacuation abortion procedure. Each surgical abortion procedure involves injections, dilation and a suction device. Since each procedure involves similar surgical instruments and processes, they share these identical physical risks…
Risks of Surgical Abortion
- Damage to the uterus or cervix
- Uterine perforation
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes
- Scarring of the inside of the uterus
- Reaction to the medicines or anesthesia, such as problems breathing
- Incomplete abortion (followed by another procedure)
Emotional Side Effects
There is an emotional component that comes with having an abortion procedure. Terminating a pregnancy causes hormonal shifts that affect mood, and there can also be more significant psychological changes that occur. Many feelings come with having an abortion that can be complex and, at times, life-threatening. Here is a list of possible emotional feelings after having an abortion procedure.
- Guilt
- Shame
- Anger
- Loneliness or isolation
- Low self-confidence
- Problems sleeping
- Problems dealing with relationships
- Suicidal thoughts and feelings
- Possible eating disorders
- Anxiety
- Depression
**If you are having suicidal thoughts or long-term depression, seek a medical professional immediately.
Making Your Decision
Before you take your next step towards a pregnancy decision – pregnancy testing AND an ultrasound are needed to confirm your pregnancy. An ultrasound will determine what type of abortion procedure you are eligible for and if your pregnancy is healthy and viable (growing). It will alert you to any possible pregnancy complications.
You may still have lots of questions and that’s ok. Talk to our medical team to learn more about abortion and all your pregnancy options. Schedule a no-cost and confidential appointment.
Innervisions Healthcare does not perform or refer for abortions.