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You may feel like you’re navigating a lot of information at once during an unexpected pregnancy. Knowing your options can help you move forward with understanding. At Vida Medical Clinic, we’re here to provide accurate information and caring support as you explore the different types of abortion.
Vida Medical Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions.
Let’s break down the two types of abortion procedures and the important details you should know about each.
Types of Abortion
There are two types of abortion: medical and surgical. The type available depends primarily on how far along you are in your pregnancy. Here’s a closer look at both.
Medical Abortion
Medical abortion involves taking two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, typically at home. This method is FDA-approved up to 10 weeks from your last menstrual cycle. Mifepristone blocks the hormone progesterone, while misoprostol causes uterine contractions that lead to cramping in the stomach area and bleeding, expelling the pregnancy.
You may experience side effects like nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, headache, and diarrhea. Possible risks include:
- The body not releasing all pregnancy tissue in the uterus, also called an incomplete abortion (this may require surgical treatment)
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive symptoms such as upset stomach
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is performed in a clinic or hospital setting, generally later in pregnancy. This procedure involves dilating the cervix to access the uterus and then using suction or medical instruments to remove the pregnancy.
After the procedure, you will likely spend a few hours waiting in a recovery room to check for excessive bleeding or other complications. Light spotting and cramping typically occur in the days following a surgical abortion.
The risks of a surgical abortion include:
- Cervical damage
- Uterine perforation
- Infection
- Uterine scarring
Empower Yourself with Information
Vida Medical Clinic offers no-cost pregnancy services to provide the support and information you need. Get answers to your questions, learn more about your pregnancy, and explore your options.
Contact us today to schedule a no-cost and confidential appointment.
The FDA recommends having an ultrasound before taking the pills or having a surgical abortion to rule out ectopic pregnancy and to determine the duration of the pregnancy. It is also advised to have STI testing prior to having a chemical or surgical abortion.
*Vida Medical Clinic does not provide or refer for abortions.
*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
