We’re glad you’ve asked this question. Chances are, if you’re wondering about risks of abortion, you’ve recently learned you are unexpectedly pregnant. Abortion seems like an easy solution, but it comes with limitations and potential risks.
We’ve provided information here but recommend scheduling an appointment at Calaveras Pregnancy Center to learn more. There is no cost for our services.
Are There Different Types of Abortion?
There are two types of abortion: medical (also known as the abortion pill method) and surgical. The length of your pregnancy (gestational age) determines which form of abortion you have.
The Abortion Pill Method
The abortion pill is a medical abortion because it uses two powerful drugs to terminate a pregnancy. The FDA has approved this method only through 10 weeks of pregnancy (70 days after the first day of your last period).
There are some reasons why the abortion pill method may not be suitable for you:
- You are too far along in your pregnancy
- You have an IUD
- You have an ectopic pregnancy
- You have certain health or allergy issues
- You can’t make a follow-up visit or do not have access to emergency care
Potential Risks
- Incomplete abortion (the farther along you are in your pregnancy, the drugs become less effective)
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work.
Surgical Abortion
Abortion providers perform surgical abortions during different trimesters. The farther along you are, the more invasive the procedure. Early surgical procedures use a vacuum or suction aspiration.
As your pregnancy progresses, the provider adds scraping tools and possibly forceps. Surgical abortions require dilation and some form of anesthesia.
Potential Risks
Because providers use surgical instruments, you run the risk of the following:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
What Should I Do if Considering an Abortion?
lthough we do not provide or refer for abortion, we can help you get the pregnancy information you need beforehand. For instance, are you confident your pregnancy is not ectopic? Knowing this answer and learning how far along you are and if your pregnancy is viable (developing) is essential before considering abortion.
Come to Calaveras Pregnancy Center for free pregnancy services. We can help you get answers to the critical questions. Fill out our confidential online contact form to set up your appointment today.