Are you considering abortion as you face an unexpected pregnancy? You are not alone as you navigate some of the tough questions that come with this serious medical decision.
We’re here to help you work through some of the most important things to know when considering any type of abortion, including knowing the risks and whether you are eligible. Safeguarding your health is the top priority.
Understand the Risks to Your Health
There are two main types of abortion: medical abortion and surgical abortion. They are each done at different points of pregnancy.
Medical Abortion (the abortion pill)
According to the Mayo Clinic, a medical abortion poses the following risks:
- Incomplete abortion – this is when the body does not release all the pregnancy tissue in the uterus. This may require surgical abortion.
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work.
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding.
- Infection.
- Fever.
- Digestive symptoms such as upset stomach.
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortions are typically done in the second trimester of pregnancy. Some women experience mild or severe risks. According to the Mayo Clinic, the possible complications you may experience after abortion include:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
Common side effects of a surgical abortion include:
- Abdominal cramping
- Vaginal bleeding
How to Know if You’re Eligible for Abortion
The FDA only recommends medical abortion for women through 10 weeks of pregnancy. Also, you may not be eligible for abortion if you are experiencing complications such as miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy, which require other medical attention.
An ultrasound is an important tool to determine your eligibility for abortion and know how far along you are.
Your first step is to schedule a no-cost, lab-quality, self-administered pregnancy test appointment with our team.
If you receive a positive test result, we will offer a referral for a no-cost, on-site ultrasound with a physician. This will provide more information and a clearer picture of your pregnancy. We’re here for you!