Abortion is a serious medical procedure. Like any medical procedure, there are associated risks when you get an abortion. Understanding the process and being aware of these risks is essential before you seek one.
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Understanding Abortion
There are two primary types of abortion: medical and surgical.
Medical abortion, approved by the FDA for use up to ten weeks of gestation (70 days from the first day of your last menstrual period), requires a consultation with a healthcare provider to assess your eligibility.
Surgical abortions are usually performed later.
Medical Abortion
In a medical abortion, two drugs are used. Mifepristone blocks progesterone. This process involves abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. Misoprostol expels the pregnancy tissue from the uterus.
Other possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, headache, and diarrhea. Risks include infection, digestive discomfort, heavy or prolonged bleeding, an ongoing pregnancy, or an incomplete abortion requiring surgical intervention.
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion, often performed later in pregnancy, involves the use of drugs, surgical tools, and suctioning to remove pregnancy tissue.
Similar to medical abortion, it causes cramping and bleeding. The risks are significant and include infection, uterine perforation, cervical damage, and scar tissue formation on the uterine wall.
Before deciding, discussing your health history and any allergies with a medical provider is crucial. An ultrasound is also recommended to confirm key pregnancy details and identify any conditions needing treatment, such as an ectopic pregnancy.
Get Free Pregnancy Services
Desert Rose Women’s Resource Center provides free services such as pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, and STI tests for women who have a positive pregnancy test.
Safeguard your health by scheduling a free and confidential appointment with us today.