Many questions come to mind when you learn you’re pregnant, especially if it was unplanned. What are your options? What will your loved ones say? One of the biggest questions in your mind might be how abortion would physically affect you. Continue reading to learn more about the physical effects of abortion.
We understand why this might be overwhelming, so we’re here to provide the information you need before making a pregnancy decision. Options Women’s Care Center is here for you with the free and confidential services you need.
Overview of the Abortion Pill and Surgical Abortion
There are two main types of abortion procedures: the abortion pill and surgical abortion. The abortion pill is administered during the first 70 days of pregnancy and involves using two medications, mifepristone, and misoprostol, to end a pregnancy.
Surgical abortion is generally performed during later pregnancy stages and involves using a combination of medication, surgical instruments, and a suctioning technique to remove pregnancy tissue from the uterus.
Common side effects of both procedures include abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding, ranging from mild to severe. Women can take over-the-counter medications for pain management or contact their abortion provider for additional support.
Learning About Possible Abortion Complications
Though abortion is often called a safe procedure, you are always at risk of complications. Both medical and surgical abortions can result in serious health problems, such as infection or hemorrhage.
If you experience the following symptoms after an abortion, you should seek medical treatment immediately:
- Heavy bleeding — soaking two or more pads an hour for two hours
- Severe abdominal or back pain
- Fever lasting more than 24 hours
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
It is also possible to have an incomplete abortion. An incomplete abortion occurs when some pregnancy tissue is left behind in the uterus. It typically requires treatment such as a dilation and curettage procedure, which removes the tissue with medication, surgical tools, or suctioning.
Risks of Abortion: What Should I Know?
Like any medical procedure, abortion comes with risks. The abortion pill carries the following risks, which can be severe:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
Surgical abortion risks include:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
Don’t delay in seeking medical treatment if you experience any signs of complications. Don’t hesitate to go to the emergency room if you feel something is wrong.
Need More Information?
Options Women’s Care Center is here to provide you with the information and answers you need. We will love you regardless of your decision and offer the free and confidential services you deserve.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you. We’re here to be a source of support!