What Happens During a Medical Abortion?
Medical abortion is one option that ends a pregnancy. If you’re exploring this option, it’s essential to understand what it involves, including the potential side effects and risks.
At Options for Her, we offer medically accurate, evidence-based information in a pressure-free environment. Schedule an appointment today to learn more.
In the meantime, keep reading to learn more.
What Is a Medical Abortion?
Medical abortion typically involves using two drugs to end a pregnancy. This method is FDA-approved for pregnancies through 10 weeks gestation.
The first drug, mifepristone, works by blocking the hormone progesterone, which is needed for the pregnancy to continue developing. Without progesterone, the pregnancy detaches from the uterus and ends.
The second drug, misoprostol, causes uterine contractions that expel the pregnancy tissue. This process involves bleeding and cramping, which can be severe.
Common Side Effects
In addition to cramping and bleeding, other side effects may include:
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Potential Risks to Consider
As with any procedure, medical abortion carries risks. While these are not guaranteed, they can occur. These include:
- Digestive symptoms (i.e., upset stomach)
- Fever
- Infection
- Heavy, prolonged bleeding
- An ongoing pregnancy (if the drugs don’t work)
- Incomplete abortion (when some pregnancy tissue remains in the uterus, potentially requiring surgical treatment)
It’s essential to take these risks seriously and discuss them with a healthcare provider before making any decisions.
We’re Here For You
At Options for Her, we provide a confidential, non-judgmental environment to ask questions and get clarity about your options. You deserve to make an informed decision based on facts, not fear.
Navigating an unexpected pregnancy isn’t easy, but you’re not alone. Schedule a free and confidential appointment to learn more about your pregnancy and discuss your options.
Options for Her does not provide or refer for abortions.
All abortion information is based on accurate information at the time of writing.
Pregnancy Testing
If you suspect you may be pregnant, you should speak with a trusted medical provider or pregnancy clinic. By discussing the best time to test and confirming your results with a quality pregnancy test and ultrasound, you can be sure of the results and begin planning your next step.
Ultrasound
Ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to receive information that can be seen as an image on a screen. Determine what choices you have with an ultrasound. An ultrasound will alert you of any possible complications. It is an important step of the pregnancy confirmation process, as it confirms three different aspects of your pregnancy.
Mobile Unit
We offer pregnancy confirmation services at our Mobile Unit! Here is more about our pregnancy services, provided at no cost to you and completely confidential. If for some reason you can't come to us, we can come to you with our mobile unit.
Pregnancy Testing
If you suspect you may be pregnant, you should speak with a trusted medical provider or pregnancy clinic. By discussing the best time to test and confirming your results with a quality pregnancy test and ultrasound, you can be sure of the results and begin planning your next step.
Ultrasound
Ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to receive information that can be seen as an image on a screen. Determine what choices you have with an ultrasound. An ultrasound will alert you of any possible complications. It is an important step of the pregnancy confirmation process, as it confirms three different aspects of your pregnancy.
Mobile Unit
We offer pregnancy confirmation services at our Mobile Unit! Here is more about our pregnancy services, provided at no cost to you and completely confidential. If for some reason you can't come to us, we can come to you with our mobile unit.
