Considering Abortion?
If you are thinking about abortion, getting accurate information is an important first step. The type of procedure available to you depends on how far along you are, where the pregnancy is located, and your health history.
Knowing those details first helps you evaluate this option and how it could affect your health. It also provides an opportunity to ask questions before making a decision.
CPO offers no-cost appointments where you can receive factual, confidential information on abortion procedures, side effects, and potential risks.
Medical Abortion
Medical abortion, commonly called the abortion pill, typically involves two drugs taken at different times.
The first drug, mifepristone, blocks progesterone, a hormone necessary for sustaining a pregnancy. Without it, the uterine lining begins to break down, and the pregnancy ends. The second drug, misoprostol, is taken later and causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy at home.
This process involves abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding, which some women describe as more intense than expected.
Common side effects may include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever or chills
- Headache
Possible risks include:
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection
- Incomplete abortion requiring follow-up care
- Ongoing pregnancy
- Digestive discomfort
Medical abortion is FDA-approved only through 10 weeks of gestation. An ultrasound is necessary to confirm gestational age before use.
Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is performed in a clinic or hospital. The procedure typically involves dilating the cervix and using suction and medical instruments to remove the pregnancy from the uterus. The specific method depends on how far along you are in your pregnancy.
Common side effects may include:
- Abdominal cramping
- Mild vaginal bleeding or spotting
Possible risks include:
- Infection
- Damage to the cervix
- Uterine perforation
- Scar tissue formation that may affect future fertility (Asherman’s syndrome)
- Incomplete abortion
An Ultrasound Protects Your Health
Before making any pregnancy decision, an ultrasound is an essential step. Through our partnership with GoLife Mobile Clinic, ultrasounds are available on-site every Tuesday from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. Our team can help you schedule an appointment after a positive pregnancy test with us.
Schedule your no-cost, confidential appointment today to get started.
