Abortion is a procedure that ends a pregnancy, and it comes with certain health risks. Though it isn’t guaranteed that these risks will occur, learning about them can help you find clarity.
Her Hope Pregnancy Center provides accurate information from the Georgia Department of Public Health. With all the details in hand, you can decide confidently.
Schedule a free and confidential options counseling appointment today. We’re here for you.
What is Abortion?
Abortion ends a pregnancy and is one of three options. The procedure type depends on how far along a woman is in her pregnancy and additional factors.
Medical abortion uses drugs to end a pregnancy. Mifepristone is taken first and blocks progesterone. Without this hormone, the uterine lining thins, and the pregnancy detaches and ends.
This abortion method is FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation. Taking these drugs after this period isn’t recommended, as there’s no guarantee they would work, and it can pose issues like more serious side effects.
Surgical abortion uses drugs, suctioning, and/or surgical tools to end a pregnancy. It is usually performed when a woman is further along.
Understanding the basics is just the first step. It is equally as important to learn about abortion methods’ side effects and risks.
Understanding the Risks
When you know the risks of abortion procedures, you can make a more informed decision and ask your healthcare provider relevant questions. We’ll help you get the facts.
Medical Abortion
Medical abortion drugs always cause abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding, which can be severe.
However, risks are possible with this procedure, including:
- Digestive symptoms (i.e., upset stomach)
- Fever
- Infection
- Heavy, prolonged bleeding
- An ongoing pregnancy (if the drugs don’t work)
- An incomplete abortion (when the body doesn’t release all the pregnancy tissue) that may need surgical treatment
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion typically results in mild cramping and light vaginal bleeding or spotting after the procedure.
Being aware of the potential risks is crucial. Surgical abortion-related risks include:
- Perforation of the uterus (when a surgical tool pokes a hole)
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall (this can cause painful periods, infertility, and more)
- Infection
You should always discuss these risks and your eligibility for abortion procedures with your healthcare provider when considering this option. Your provider can address your medical history and any specific concerns.
Her Hope Pregnancy Center is also here to provide accurate options information, help confirm your pregnancy, and more.
How Can I Protect My Health?
Following a positive pregnancy test with us, an ultrasound referral will be offered. This scan helps you make an educated decision by confirming your pregnancy and ensuring you have the information needed to take your next steps.
Certain conditions, including ectopic pregnancy, can make you ineligible for an abortion procedure. An ultrasound helps you protect your health and know where you stand.
Our staff also provides options counseling in a loving and compassionate environment. The pregnancy decision is yours; we’ll offer details on all your options.
Schedule a free and confidential appointment today. You’re not alone.
Her Hope Pregnancy Center does not perform or refer for abortions.
All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.