Types of Abortion Procedures
Are you considering abortion as you face an unplanned pregnancy? Here’s more about this option so you can make an informed choice. There are two main abortion procedures: medical and surgical.
1. Medical Abortion (also called the Abortion Pill)
Medical abortion is typically done in the first trimester of pregnancy and works to terminate an existing pregnancy through two different drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. There are significant health risks to consider if you are thinking about this option.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the possible risks of medical abortion include the following:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
2. Surgical Abortion
As with medical abortion, an abortion provider determines which surgical abortion procedure you will have based on the number of weeks you have been pregnant. There are three types: D&C, D&E, or aspiration abortion.
Procedures range from suctioning the pregnancy with a vacuum-type instrument to scraping pregnancy tissue with a sharp spoon-shaped curette. With later pregnancies, an abortion provider may use forceps to remove the pregnancy.
The Mayo Clinic shares possible complications of surgical abortion, including:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
What Are Your Abortion Options?
The type of abortion procedure you receive depends on one major factor: how far along you are in your pregnancy. So it’s essential to obtain an ultrasound beforehand.
Feel Pressured to Choose Abortion?
Maybe your partner, friends, or family are pressuring you into getting an abortion or making another pregnancy decision. No one can decide for you. You have the final say.
Talk to us safely and confidentially today at New Beginnings Pregnancy Center, where you can speak freely and ask questions. We offer options consultations to help you, not to pressure you.
Schedule an appointment today to confirm your pregnancy and discuss your options.