Abortion – it’s a pregnancy option that can pose many questions If you’re considering this option, it is important to understand the process and the different types of procedures available to you.
When thinking about abortion, there are a few steps to consider before making a final decision. First, it is important to confirm your pregnancy, even after taking an at-home pregnancy test.
To ensure the viability of your pregnancy, our clinic offers medical-grade pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds. An ultrasound is the only way to confirm all of these details. We offer limited ultrasounds at no cost.
The type of abortion you are eligible for is based on how far along your pregnancy is. Medical abortion is for women who are 11 weeks 0 days pregnant or less. Any pregnancy over this requires a surgical abortion.
Also called the abortion pill, medical abortion is a two-step medication procedure. There are two different drugs taken in the process: mifepristone and misoprostol – a series of two powerful drugs over a 24 to 48 hour period.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks the womb from absorbing the hormone progesterone , which thins the uterus and prevents the embryo from implanting or growing. The second drug, misoprostol, causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy.
Potential risks of medical abortion (the abortion pill):
During a surgical abortion, anesthesia may be given before the procedure. Dilation of the cervix and multiple surgical instruments remove the pregnancy through the vagina. If you are 11 to 13 weeks pregnant, a D & C (dilation and curettage) will likely be done using a vacuum and scraping tool to remove the pregnancy.
If you are further than 13 weeks pregnant, a D & E (dilation and evacuation) will likely be done. Along with a vacuum and scraping tool, surgical tools, including forceps, are used to remove all pregnancy tissue parts.
Potential risks of surgical abortion include:
Both surgical and medical abortion are major medical procedures with pros and cons to consider. We are here to walk with you as you make this decision. Schedule a no-cost pre-abortion screening today to gather the information you need as you make your choice.
At Options for Women, we are here to support you and answer questions you may have about abortion. Schedule your appointment today to speak with our medical staff.