When it comes to terminating an unwanted pregnancy, there are various types of abortion procedures you may be eligible for, each with varying approaches, side effects, and risks.
In this blog, we will be answering the commonly asked question, “What are the different types of abortion?”
What is a Medical Abortion?
In the process known as medical abortion or “the abortion pill,” the abortion provider will prescribe two different drugs, mifepristone and misoprostol.
Mifepristone is administered first to prevent the womb from absorbing the hormone called progesterone. Because progesterone is required in order for a pregnancy to grow and develop, the fetus will not survive.
After the pregnancy ends, Misoprostol is taken to expel the fetus from the womb through a process of contractions.
Medical abortions are only available in the first 70 days (or ten weeks) of pregnancy.
What Are the Side Effects and Risks of a Medical Abortion?
A medical abortion does come with some side effects and may also be accompanied by more severe risks.
Side effects may include nausea, weakness, fever, chills, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, and diarrhea. Some women experience health risks such as infection, sepsis, and hemorrhaging.
What Are the Different Types of Surgical Abortions?
As the fetus grows and develops in these later weeks, different surgical abortion procedures are required to terminate the pregnancy. Keep reading to learn about the first- and second-trimester surgical abortion procedures.
Suction Curettage Abortions
In a Suction Curettage abortion, the cervix is dilated so that the fetal tissue can be pulled apart and removed by a suction device. In order to ensure all of the fetal tissue was removed, the abortion provider may use a curette to scrape the uterus.
A Suction Curettage abortion is available in the first 14 weeks of pregnancy.
Dilation and Evacuation Abortion
Second-trimester surgical abortion procedures require a more invasive process due to the mature state of the fetus at this stage in pregnancy.
Like first-trimester abortion procedures, a Dilation and Evacuation (D&E) abortion involves first dilating the cervix, however, the fetal tissue is then broken down into smaller pieces of bone and tissue in order for it to be small enough for removal. The abortion provider may use forceps, suctioning, and scraping techniques.
What Are the Side Effects and Risks Related to Surgical Abortion Procedures?
Typical side effects of surgical abortions include cramping and bleeding. However, some women also experience more severe risks, including perforation of the uterus and other organs, damage to the cervix, scar tissue on the uterine wall, and infection.
What Do I Need to Know Before Getting an Abortion?
If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy and considering abortion, take time to learn about your pregnancy and explore the options available to you. Visit TryLife Center to receive these important pregnancy screenings at no cost to you:
- Lab-quality pregnancy testing to confirm your pregnancy with the most accurate testing available
- Confirm the age, location, and viability of your pregnancy through an ultrasound scan. This scan will also rule out pregnancy complications, such as ectopic pregnancy.
- STI testing to rule out dangerous infections that may spread during an abortion procedure
- A medical consultation and options counseling session to better understand the safest option for you
Are you ready to make an informed choice for your pregnancy? Schedule your free appointment today!