If you’re considering abortion, you may be wondering the difference between a medical abortion vs. a surgical abortion and the different types of abortion procedures available. You also are probably trying to figure out what’s best for you or what a medical professional might recommend. This article will tell you more about two common types of abortion.
If you would like to talk with someone about your pregnancy options, including abortion, contact Jewel for a free options consultation. We are a safe place to ask questions and get information. Our medical team can give you details on different abortion procedures, risks, and side effects.
What Is a Medical Abortion?
A medical abortion, also called a medication abortion or chemical abortion, is more commonly referred to as “the abortion pill.” It involves two different prescription pills usually taken 24 to 48 hours apart.
- The first pill blocks pregnancy hormones.
- The second pill causes the uterus to empty out.
When Can You Get a Medical Abortion?
You may be wondering how late you can take the abortion pill. Prescription abortion pills are FDA-approved for pregnancies up to 10 weeks in gestation during the typical abortion pill timeline. If your pregnancy is further along than this, a medical abortion via the abortion pill is usually not recommended, as it can increase the risk of complications.
Side Effects of a Medical Abortion
Abortion pill drug side effects include vaginal bleeding and cramping of the abdominal area as your uterus contracts and empties. Other abortion pill side effects you may experience include:
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Although severe side effects are rare, there are other medical abortion risks associated with medical abortions. These include:
- An incomplete abortion (when the body does not release all the pregnancy tissue from the uterus, which may then lead to a surgical abortion)
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection or fever
If you have taken abortion pill drugs and are experiencing these severe symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
What Is a Surgical Abortion?
A surgical abortion procedure involves dilating the cervix so that surgical tools can be inserted into the uterus to scrape and/or suction out the pregnancy.
Sometimes patients are provided with oral pain or anxiety medication beforehand, depending on the surgeon. Most patients will receive local anesthetic.
When Can You Get a Surgical Abortion?
A surgical abortion is normally performed later in pregnancy during a second trimester abortion procedure.
- A suction alone can be used to empty the uterus if you are around 14-16 weeks pregnant.
- At 16 weeks pregnant and beyond, a combination of suction and medical tools to scrape and remove tissue is usually used.
Side Effects of a Surgical Abortion
Women undergoing a surgical abortion can expect vaginal bleeding and cramping. Other surgical abortion risks associated with this type of abortion are low, but it is possible to experience the following:
- Needing another procedure to remove parts of the pregnancy that have stayed in the uterus
- Very heavy bleeding
- Infection or injury to the uterus or cervix
Protect Your Health Before a Medical or Surgical Abortion
If you are considering one of the two types of abortion mentioned above, you may be wondering how to go about it while still keeping your body healthy. Protect your health by having an ultrasound before your abortion. The ultrasound will answer important questions and provide the information you need.
Jewel Women’s Center offers free ultrasounds as part of an options consultation. While Jewel provides factual information about abortion procedures and options, Jewel does not perform or refer for abortion services
Contact Jewel today to schedule a free options consultation and ultrasound.