Understanding the potential risks of abortion is an essential step when considering your pregnancy options. Like any medical procedure, abortion carries certain physical risks and side effects that vary depending on the type of abortion. Being informed about these risks can help you make the decision that is best for your health and circumstances.
If you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy and feeling unsure about your next steps, Assure Pregnancy Clinic is here to support you. We offer free services to help you make an informed and confident decision. Contact us today to get started.
The Two Types of Abortion
Medical abortion, often called “the abortion pill,” involves taking drugs to terminate a pregnancy. This method is typically performed early in pregnancy and completed at home.
Surgical abortion is a procedure that uses medical instruments, suction, or a combination of both to remove the pregnancy and related tissue from the uterus. It is performed at a hospital or clinic and is usually done later in pregnancy.
Risks of Medical Abortion
During a medical abortion, side effects commonly include abdominal cramping, vaginal bleeding, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, and headaches.
Medical abortion is only FDA-approved through 10 weeks gestation. Seeking this option after 10 weeks can lead to severe health complications.
Potential risks include:
- Fever
- Infection
- Digestive system discomfort
- Heavy or prolonged bleeding
- Incomplete abortion, which may require surgical intervention
- Ongoing pregnancy if the medication is ineffective
Risks of Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion carries its own set of risks, including infection, uterine perforation, cervical damage, and the formation of scar tissue on the uterine wall.
A potential complication following surgical abortion is Asherman’s syndrome, which can cause irregular, absent, or painful menstrual cycles and may increase the risk of future miscarriages or infertility. This condition might require further surgical treatment to resolve.
Find Free Pregnancy Services
Abortion procedures come with a range of potential risks and side effects. At Assure Pregnancy Clinic, we’re here to provide you with accurate information about these procedures and help you explore all your options.
We also offer free pregnancy services, including lab-certified pregnancy testing and ultrasounds, to give you the essential details about your pregnancy and help you take the next steps with confidence.
Make a confidential appointment with our team today. You don’t have to face this alone—we’re here to offer support.
*All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing.