Some women think abortion is their best and only option. Some are indecisive about their view on abortion. Other women feel pressured by people around them to consider abortion.
We are here to help you sort through your thoughts, feelings, and questions. Abortion can have a profound effect on your life. Take the time to educate yourself so you can make a decision that is right for you.
Types of Abortion
There is more than one type of abortion procedure, and each one is done at different points of pregnancy. It’s important to note that the SOGC only recommends a medical abortion for women for the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. Otherwise, a surgical abortion may be needed.
Medical Abortion
Medical abortion consists of two different drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, which work to terminate an existing pregnancy. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, which causes your uterine lining to shed and the pregnancy to detach.
Next, misoprostol causes your uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy. You’ll always have abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding when you take these drugs.
Medical abortion includes side effects like nausea, vomiting, chills, fever, headache, and diarrhea. Potential risks of medical abortion include:
- Infection
- Severe skin rashes
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- An ongoing pregnancy (if the procedure doesn’t work)
- An incomplete abortion (which may need to be followed by a surgical procedure)
Surgical Abortion
A surgical abortion consists of dilating the cervix, a suctioning device, and other surgical and medical tools to terminate and remove the pregnancy. There is more than one type of surgical abortion procedure, all with similar possible risks, including:
- Damage to the uterus or cervix
- Uterine perforation
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection of the uterus or fallopian tubes
- Scarring of the inside of the uterus
- Reaction to the drugs or anesthesia, such as problems breathing
- Not removing all of the tissue (incomplete abortion) which requires another procedure
Before an Abortion
If you are contemplating an abortion, we are an important first step to getting more information about your pregnancy and your options. Get the facts to make an informed decision.
Take one step at a time so you can feel ready to make a decision. Schedule a no-cost appointment to learn more about this pregnancy option.
