Abortion is a permanent choice that will terminate your pregnancy. Before making this decision, it’s essential to understand the potential physical and mental risks associated with abortion to protect your health.

What Are My Abortion Options?

There are two main types of abortion: medical and surgical. Medical abortion (aka the “abortion pill”) is only FDA-approved for pregnancies under 10 weeks gestation, while surgical abortion is typically done later in pregnancy.

Medical Abortion

Medical abortion involves taking two powerful drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. These drugs are taken at home, without the supervision of a physician. These drugs cause vaginal bleeding and abdominal cramping.

Mifepristone is taken first. It interferes with your body’s supply of progesterone, which is a hormone that’s needed to maintain a healthy pregnancy. Without progesterone, your pregnancy will be starved of nutrients and end. 

Misoprostol is taken next. It causes your uterus to contract. This forces the pregnancy out of the uterus and through the vagina.

Surgical Abortion

Surgical abortion is performed in a clinic, and it involves opening the cervix so that medical instruments can enter the uterus to remove the pregnancy. To remove the pregnancy, strong suction and scraping tools are used.

What Are the Risks of Abortion?

Both types of abortion come with risks. 

The risks of medical abortion are higher if your pregnancy is further along than 10 weeks. These risks include:

• Incomplete abortion, which is when parts of your terminated pregnancy remain in your uterus
• An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
• Heavy and prolonged bleeding
• Infection
• Fever
• Digestive system discomfort

The risks of surgical abortion include:

• Perforation of the uterus (this is when the abortion tool pokes a hole in your uterus)
• Cervical damage
• Uterine scarring

Before You Decide

Before seeking an abortion, getting an ultrasound, reviewing your medical history with a healthcare provider, and getting tested and treated for STIs can protect your health. At FirstLook, we offer these services and more free of charge.

You’re Not Alone

Facing an unplanned pregnancy can make you feel like you’re all alone, but you’re not. At FirstLook, we’re here for you. If you’re considering an abortion, don’t put your health at risk. Contact us today to schedule a free, confidential appointment.