If you’re unexpectedly pregnant and considering abortion, it’s important to know the possible physical effects of the procedure. Like any medical intervention, abortion involves certain side effects and risks, and understanding these can help you make an informed choice.
At Calaveras Pregnancy Center, we’re here to support you with no-cost pregnancy services and offer you the information you need. If you’d like to talk one-on-one with someone who can help answer your questions, feel free to reach out to us. For now, read on to learn more about the physical impact of abortion.
Understanding Medical Abortion
Medical abortion is one option available during early pregnancy. This involves taking two drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol, which work together to end the pregnancy. The FDA has approved this method through ten weeks of pregnancy.
The most common side effects of a medical abortion are vaginal bleeding and cramping in the stomach area, which can be intense. Other side effects include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, and headaches. Possible risks include:
- The body not releasing all pregnancy tissue in the uterus, also called an incomplete abortion. This may require surgical abortion.
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work.
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding.
- Infection.
- Fever.
- Digestive symptoms such as upset stomach.
If you experience heavy bleeding, a rapid heartbeat, a fever lasting more than four hours, or other concerning symptoms, it’s crucial to contact a healthcare provider right away.
What to Know About Surgical Abortion
Surgical abortion is another method, using a combination of drugs, suction, or instruments to physically remove the pregnancy from the uterus. After the procedure, you’ll likely stay in a recovery room for a few hours to check for any complications, like excessive bleeding.
Side effects of surgical abortion may include mild cramping and light bleeding for a few days afterward. However, some risks include:
- Uterine perforation.
- Damage to the cervix.
- Scar tissue formation on the uterine wall.
- Infection.
If you’re experiencing heavy bleeding that requires changing a pad every hour, worsening pain, or any other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
Let’s Get Informed Together
Abortion is a serious medical procedure that can affect your body in various ways. Before you make a decision, it’s important to have a clear understanding of these physical impacts.
At Calaveras Pregnancy Center, we’re here to provide you with information and support, including no-cost pregnancy services, such as pregnancy tests, in a confidential setting.
Contact us to set up an appointment, and let’s discuss your options so you can feel fully informed and supported every step of the way.
*We do not perform or refer abortions.
**All abortion information sourced in this blog is based on accurate information at the time of writing