It’s important to understand your options fully when you’re unexpectedly pregnant, especially when considering abortion. There are two primary types of abortion procedures: medical and surgical. Each method has its own process, timeline, and associated risks.

Becoming informed about these procedures can help you make a decision that fits your circumstances. At FirstLook, we’re here to provide compassionate, confidential care and support to help you explore your options.

Here’s an overview of both types of abortion:

Medical Abortion

A medical abortion, often referred to as the “abortion pill,” is a non-surgical method used to terminate a pregnancy up to 10 weeks gestation. It involves taking two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol.

• Mifepristone is taken first to block the hormone progesterone.
• Misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later to cause contractions that expel the pregnancy from the uterus.

This process typically happens at home after a clinic prescribes the drugs. The drugs will cause cramping in the stomach area and heavy bleeding. Common side effects include nausea, fever, and other flu-like symptoms.

Potential risks of a medical abortion 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

A surgical abortion involves a combination of medical instruments, suction, or drugs to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. This procedure is performed in a clinic or hospital and is typically used in later stages of pregnancy.

After the procedure, patients usually spend a few hours in recovery to monitor for excessive bleeding or other complications.

The risks of a surgical abortion include:

• Perforation of the uterus.
• Damage to the cervix.
• Scar tissue on the uterine wall, which can lead to painful periods, miscarriages, or infertility.
• Infection.

Protecting Your Health

It is important to understand all the risks and details before making any decision. At FirstLook, we offer free pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and more to help you make a well-informed choice. Our compassionate care team is here to walk with you every step of the way in a safe, confidential space.

If you’re looking for support, contact us to schedule an appointment today. We’re here to help you make the best decision for your health and future.

*FirstLook does not provide or refer for abortions. 

*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.