Abortion is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy. There are two main types of abortion: medical and surgical.
If you’re considering abortion, it’s critical to understand how it works and the risks involved to ensure you’re making an informed decision.
Medical Abortion
Medical abortion, often referred to as the abortion pill, involves taking drugs to end a pregnancy. This option is FDA-approved if your pregnancy is ten or less weeks along.
The process involves two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for the pregnancy to continue. Misoprostol, taken 24-48 hours later, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
Potential side effects include moderate to severe cramping, vaginal bleeding, upset stomach, vomiting, fever, chills, headache, and diarrhea.
The risks include heavy and prolonged bleeding, infection, fever, digestive symptoms (such as an upset stomach), and failed or incomplete abortion (where parts of the terminated pregnancy remain in your uterus).
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is performed in a clinic or hospital setting and includes various procedures, depending on the pregnancy stage. One type of surgical abortion performed in the first trimester is vacuum aspiration, where the cervix is dilated and strong suction is used to remove the pregnancy from the uterus.
Later in pregnancy, a dilation and curettage (D&C) abortion may take place. It involves dilating the cervix and using surgical instruments (like scraping tools) combined with suction to remove the pregnancy.
Risks of a surgical abortion include heavy bleeding, infection, and injury to the cervix, uterus, and other organs.
Long-term risks are rare but can include difficulty getting pregnant in the future if scarring of the inner lining of the uterus occurs (Asherman’s syndrome).
You’re Not Alone
Navigating your pregnancy options can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone in this process. At First Choice Women’s Center, we’re here for you.
While we don’t perform or refer for abortions, we are here to offer medically accurate information and support in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Contact us today to schedule your free, confidential appointment.
Georgia Abortion Law
*We offer education regarding Georgia abortion law using information provided by the Georgia Department of Public Health Women’s Right to Know booklet.