Understanding the risks associated with abortion is essential. Like any medical procedure, abortion carries potential physical risks and side effects, which vary depending on the type of abortion performed. Being informed about these risks can help you make the best decision for your health and personal circumstances.
If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and unsure of your next steps, A Choice to Make Pregnancy Resource Center is here to support you. We offer free and confidential services such as pregnancy testing, options education, and limited ultrasounds to help you explore your options with confidence.
Types of Abortion
There are two main types of abortion: medical and surgical.
Medical Abortion: This method uses drugs to terminate a pregnancy. It is typically performed early in pregnancy and completed at home.
Surgical Abortion: This procedure uses a combination of drugs, suction, or surgical instruments to remove a pregnancy from the uterus. Surgical abortions are performed in a clinic or hospital and typically occur later in pregnancy.
Risks of Medical Abortion
Medical abortion, also known as “the abortion pill,” involves taking two drugs about 24-48 hours apart. While women experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding during this process, other side effects can include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, and headache.
Medical abortions are FDA-approved only through 10 weeks of gestation. Attempting a medical abortion beyond this timeframe can increase the risk of serious health complications.
The risks associated with a medical abortion are:
- The body not releasing all pregnancy tissue in the uterus, also called an incomplete abortion (this may require a surgical procedure)
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive symptoms such as an upset stomach
Risks of Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion also has side effects to consider, with light spotting and cramping in the days that follow the procedure. The potential risks include:
- Infection
- Uterine perforation
- Cervical damage
- Scar tissue formation on the uterine wall
One possible complication is Asherman’s syndrome, which can result in irregular, absent, or painful menstrual cycles, as well as an increased risk of miscarriage or infertility. In some cases, this condition may require additional surgical treatment.
Get Free and Confidential Pregnancy Services
These are just some of the risks associated with abortion. At A Choice to Make Pregnancy Resource Center, we provide the information and support you need to make an informed decision about your pregnancy.
We offer free and confidential services to help you get the critical details, so you can fully understand your options moving forward.
Schedule a confidential appointment today. We’re here to support you as you navigate the road ahead.
*A Choice to Make Pregnancy Resource Center does not perform or refer for abortions.