--- title: Abortion FAQs | Explore Options in a Safe Space description: Find reliable information on abortion options, processes, costs, and support at A Choice to Make. --- [Skip to Content](https://achoicetomake.org/abortion-faqs#main-content) - [Call or Text | (843) 603-8599](tel:%20+18436038599) - [Portal Login](https://portal.ekyros.com/?t=3s1Gm) [![ACTM Logo](https://achoicetomake.org/hubfs/ACTM%20Logo.svg)](https://achoicetomake.org?hsLang=en) - Show submenu for Services Services - [Text With Our Nurses](https://achoicetomake.org/24/7-nurse-texting) - [Testing & Ultrasounds](https://achoicetomake.org/testing-ultrasounds-florence) - [Considering Abortion?](https://achoicetomake.org/abortion) - [Parenting Services](https://achoicetomake.org/free-parenting-services) - [Advocacy Services](https://achoicetomake.org/advocacy-services) - [Abortion Pill Reversal](https://achoicetomake.org/abortion-pill-reversal) - Show submenu for FAQs FAQs - [First Appointment Expectations](https://achoicetomake.org/what-to-expect) - [About Abortion](https://achoicetomake.org/abortion-faqs) - [About the Abortion Pill](https://achoicetomake.org/abortion-pill-faqs) - [About Pregnancy](https://achoicetomake.org/pregnancy-faqs) - [Helpful Advice](https://achoicetomake.org/helpful-advice) - [Español](https://achoicetomake.org/apoyo-embarazo) [Make Appointment](https://achoicetomake.org/make-appointment?hsLang=en) Show submenu for Services Services Show submenu for FAQs FAQs [Helpful Advice](https://achoicetomake.org/helpful-advice) [Español](https://achoicetomake.org/apoyo-embarazo) [Make Appointment](https://achoicetomake.org/make-appointment?hsLang=en) ###### Reliable Facts on Abortion # Abortion FAQs You're not the only one wondering. Find answers on abortion options, process, costs, and guidance in one place. WHEN YOU NEED ANSWERS FAST #### Our Nurses Are Here To Help > Text with our nurses anytime for free at [(843) 603-8599](sms:+18436038599) to talk or schedule an appointment. ## Your Abortion Questions—Answered With Care - What Is An Abortion? ### What Is An Abortion? **Abortion is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy.** It can be done either with prescribed medication or through a minor surgical intervention, depending on how far along the pregnancy is. Medication abortion involves taking a two-drug regimen to terminate an early pregnancy, while surgical abortion uses techniques like vacuum aspiration or dilation and evacuation. - How Does Abortion Occur? ### How Does Abortion Occur? **Abortion occurs when a pregnancy is ended using medication or a surgical procedure.** Medication abortion uses a two-drug regimen, first to block the pregnancy hormone progesterone and then to induce uterine contractions that expel pregnancy tissue, generally within the first ten weeks. Surgical abortion involves opening the cervix and using suction (vacuum aspiration) or instruments (dilation and evacuation) to remove the pregnancy under local or general anesthesia. - Medical Abortion V. Surgical Abortion? ### Medical Abortion V. Surgical Abortion? **Medical abortion ends a pregnancy with prescribed medications, while surgical abortion uses an in-clinic procedure.** A medical abortion is a two-pill regimen of mifepristone and misoprostol that is only FDA approved up to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Surgical abortion involves opening the cervix and using suction (vacuum aspiration) or instruments (dilation and evacuation) to remove the fetus. - Is Abortion Legal in South Carolina? ### Is Abortion Legal in South Carolina? South Carolina law prohibits abortion after cardiac activity is detected on ultrasound. That can be as early as **about 6 weeks** of pregnancy. Exceptions apply for a medical emergency that endangers your life or major bodily function, for a fatal fetal anomaly, and for pregnancies from rape or incest up to 12 weeks. State rules also require voluntary, informed consent, an ultrasound, a minimum 60-minute wait after the ultrasound, and at least 24 hours to review state-provided information before an abortion (unless those materials were received earlier by mail or at a health department). At A Choice to Make, you can receive a free lab-grade pregnancy test and a limited diagnostic ultrasound. You’ll also have a private, judgment-free place to talk through questions about abortion, adoption, and parenting so you can make a well-informed decision that fits your life. Appointments are confidential.   Source: https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t44c041.php - Does Abortion Hurt? ### Does Abortion Hurt? **Abortion does hurt**, but the amount of pain felt depends on the procedure, the duration of the pregnancy, and individual pain tolerance. During a medical abortion, you may experience strong cramps as the uterus expels the fetus. In a surgical abortion, local or general anesthesia is used, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure itself, though you might have varying levels of pain afterwards. There are different factors that can impact pain levels, all things we can discuss with you during your appointemtn.  - How Long Do You Bleed After An Abortion? ### How Long Do You Bleed After An Abortion? **Bleeding usually lasts one to two weeks**, but could be longer depending on the procedure and length of pregnancy, including light spotting sometimes continuing for several weeks. After a medical abortion, heavier bleeding and passing small clots tend to occur in the first few days, then gradually taper off; light spotting can persist for up to six weeks. With a surgical abortion, most bleeding clears within about a week, though spotting may continue for one to two weeks afterward.   Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21899-medical-abortion - How Much Does An Abortion Cost? ### How Much Does An Abortion Cost? **The cost of an abortion varies widely** depending on the procedure, how far along the pregnancy is, and your insurance coverage. Some people pay only a modest out-of-pocket fee, while others may face higher expenses if their insurance doesn’t cover the service or if the procedure occurs later in pregnancy. - What's In The Abortion Pill? ### What's In The Abortion Pill? The abortion pill regimen consists of two medications: **mifepristone followed by misoprostol**. Mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone needed to maintain the uterine lining, causing the pregnancy to detach. Misoprostol is taken 24–48 hours later to induce uterine contractions that expel the pregnancy tissue. The FDA only approves of this procedure during the first ten weeks of pregnancy and it should only be administered under clinical supervision with a follow-up visit to confirm success and address any cramping or bleeding.   Source: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda\_docs/label/2023/020687Orig1s025Lbl.pdf   - How Soon After An Abortion Can You Get Pregnant? ### How Soon After An Abortion Can You Get Pregnant? Fertility may return as soon as two weeks, but can take several months for some women. Many women ovulate before their first post-abortion period, often around four to six weeks, but some may not ovulate again for two to three months or longer. Because cycles vary, pregnancy is possible almost immediately, or it may be delayed.  - What Are The Risks Of Abortion? ### What Are The Risks Of Abortion? > ANY MEDICAL PROCEDURE CAN CARRY SOME RISKS. THESE VARY BY METHOD (MEDICAL OR SURGICAL) AND FACTORS LIKE GESTATIONAL AGE OR PERSONAL HEALTH.   **MEDICAL ABORTION (ABORTION PILL, UP TO ~10 WEEKS):** - Common: Heavy bleeding, cramping, nausea. - Risks: Incomplete abortion, excessive bleeding, infection, or untreated ectopic pregnancy. ###### **SURGICAL ABORTION (E.G., ASPIRATION, DILATION AND EVACUATION):** - Common: Cramping, light bleeding. - Risks: Uterine perforation, infection, cervical injury, or scarring (rare, may affect fertility). ###### **GENERAL RISKS:** - Emotional Impact: Feelings like sadness or relief vary; distress is more likely with pre-existing mental health issues. - Serious Complications: Severe bleeding, sepsis, or death are extremely rare. - Future Fertility: Usually unaffected unless rare complications like severe scarring occur.   Always consult a healthcare provider to discuss personal risks and follow-up care.     Sources: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2020/10/medication-abortion-up-to-70-days-of-gestation https://www.rcog.org.uk/media/nwcjrf0o/abortion-guideline\_web\_1.pdf ## Considering Abortion in Florence, SC? At A Choice to Make, we provide free lab-quality [pregnancy tests](https://achoicetomake.org/pregnancy-testing-florence-sc?hsLang=en), [ultrasounds](https://achoicetomake.org/free-ultrasounds-florence-sc?hsLang=en), and [information on abortion options](https://achoicetomake.org/abortion?hsLang=en), so you can make informed decisions with confidence. > **Feeling overwhelmed?** Text with our nurses anytime for free at [(843) 603-8599](sms:+18436038599) to talk or schedule an appointment. ![A Choice to Make Icon\_Color\_Print](https://achoicetomake.org/hs-fs/hubfs/A%20Choice%20to%20Make%20Icon_Color_Print.png?width=150&height=150&name=A%20Choice%20to%20Make%20Icon_Color_Print.png)   **Get In Touch** [Contact Us](https://achoicetomake.org/contact?hsLang=en) [For Donors](https://friendsofachoicetomake.org/give) **Visit Us** 516 S Coit St Florence, SC 29501 [Get Directions](https://maps.apple.com/directions?destination=A+Choice+to+Make+Pregnancy+Resource+Center%2C+516+S+Coit+St%2C+Florence%2C+SC++29501%2C+United+States&destination-place-id=IC6E5EAEE690F952C&mode=driving) **Hours** Mon - Thurs: 9am - 5pm **Here For You** Our center provides the care you need so you can make the best decision for yourself. We do not perform or refer women for abortions.   [Make Appointment](https://achoicetomake.org/make-appointment?hsLang=en)   © 2026 A Choice to Make. All Rights Reserved. - [Privacy Policy](https://achoicetomake.org/privacy-policy) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement" : [ { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://achoicetomake.org/", "name" : "Home", "position" : 1 }, { "@type" : "ListItem", "item" : "https://achoicetomake.org/abortion-faqs", "name" : "Abortion FAQs", "position" : 2 } ] } ``` ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "FAQPage", "about" : { "@type" : "MedicalProcedure", "description" : "Information about abortion procedures, risks, alternatives, and free options support.", "name" : "Abortion Information", "url" : "https://achoicetomake.org/abortion" }, "description" : "Frequently asked questions about abortion, including procedures, legality in South Carolina, recovery, risks, and more.", "inLanguage" : "en", "isPartOf" : { "@type" : "WebSite", "name" : "A Choice to Make: Pregnancy Resource Center", "url" : "https://achoicetomake.org/" }, "mainEntity" : [ { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Abortion is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy. 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Surgical abortion involves opening the cervix and using suction (vacuum aspiration) or instruments (dilation and evacuation) under local or general anesthesia." }, "name" : "How Does Abortion Occur?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Medical abortion ends a pregnancy with prescribed medications, while surgical abortion uses an in-clinic procedure. A common medical regimen is mifepristone followed by misoprostol (generally used up to about 10 weeks). Surgical abortion involves opening the cervix and using suction (vacuum aspiration) or instruments (dilation and evacuation) to remove the fetus." }, "name" : "Medical Abortion V. Surgical Abortion?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "South Carolina law prohibits abortion after cardiac activity is detected on ultrasound, which can be as early as about 6 weeks of pregnancy. Exceptions apply for a medical emergency that endangers your life or major bodily function, for a fatal fetal anomaly, and for pregnancies from rape or incest up to 12 weeks. State rules also require voluntary, informed consent, an ultrasound, a minimum 60-minute wait after the ultrasound, and at least 24 hours to review state-provided information (unless materials were received earlier by mail or at a health department). At A Choice to Make, you can receive a free lab-grade pregnancy test and a limited diagnostic ultrasound, plus a private, judgment-free place to talk through abortion, adoption, and parenting. Appointments are confidential." }, "name" : "Is Abortion Legal in South Carolina?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Abortion can be painful, but the amount of pain varies by procedure, gestational age, and individual tolerance. With a medical abortion, strong cramps are common as the uterus expels pregnancy tissue. With surgical abortion, anesthesia is used so pain during the procedure is reduced, though cramping or discomfort afterward can occur." }, "name" : "Does Abortion Hurt?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Bleeding typically lasts one to two weeks and may be heavier in the first few days after a medical abortion, tapering to light spotting that can persist for up to several weeks. After a surgical abortion, most bleeding clears within about a week, though spotting may continue for one to two weeks." }, "name" : "How Long Do You Bleed After An Abortion?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Costs vary widely based on procedure type, how far along the pregnancy is, and your insurance coverage. Some people pay a modest out-of-pocket fee, while others may face higher expenses if insurance does not cover the service or if the procedure occurs later in pregnancy." }, "name" : "How Much Does An Abortion Cost?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "The abortion pill regimen consists of two medications: mifepristone followed by misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, which supports the uterine lining; misoprostol is taken 24–48 hours later to cause uterine contractions that expel pregnancy tissue. This regimen is generally used in the first ten weeks and should include clinical oversight and follow-up." }, "name" : "What's In The Abortion Pill?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Fertility may return quickly—sometimes within two weeks. Many people ovulate before their first post-abortion period (often around four to six weeks), while others may not ovulate again for two to three months. Because cycles vary, pregnancy is possible soon after an abortion." }, "name" : "How Soon After An Abortion Can You Get Pregnant?" }, { "@type" : "Question", "acceptedAnswer" : { "@type" : "Answer", "text" : "Any medical procedure can carry risks that vary by method and individual health. For medication abortion, common effects include heavy bleeding, cramping, and nausea; potential risks include incomplete abortion, excessive bleeding, infection, or an undiagnosed ectopic pregnancy. For surgical abortion, common effects include cramping and light bleeding; potential risks include uterine perforation, infection, cervical injury, or scarring (rare). Serious complications are uncommon. Emotional responses vary and may be influenced by pre-existing mental health factors. 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