What Are Different Types of Abortion?

There are two types of abortion procedures: medical and surgical. Each method has its own process, considerations, and timelines. 

It’s critical to get informed about your options and know the risks involved when it comes to abortion. This can help you make a decision that aligns with your values and circumstances. 

To get informed, talk with us at Agape Women’s Clinic. We’re here to provide compassionate medical care that supports and empowers women experiencing unplanned pregnancies. You can make a free appointment here. 

Or continue reading to learn more about the different procedures.

Medical Abortion

A medical abortion, also known as the “abortion pill,” is a method to end a pregnancy using drugs. It’s FDA-approved through ten weeks gestation (how far along you are). 

Medical abortion uses two drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. These are prescribed by a clinic and taken at home. Mifepristone is taken first to block the hormone progesterone. Next, misoprostol is taken 24-48 hours later to cause uterine contractions and expel the pregnancy from the uterus. 

The most common side effects are abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding, but you may also experience nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, or headache.

The risks of a medical abortion include:

• 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

A surgical abortion uses a combination of drugs, medical instruments, suction, or forceps to remove a pregnancy from the uterus. 

Surgical abortions are performed in a hospital or clinic and are usually done in the later stages of pregnancy. You will likely spend a few hours in a recovery room after the procedure to check for excessive bleeding or complications. 

The risks of a surgical abortion include:

• Perforation of the uterus
• Damage to the cervix
• Scar tissue on the uterine wall (which can lead to painful menstrual cycles, future miscarriages or infertility)
• Infection
• Safeguarding Your Health

This is simply some of the information you need to know about abortion procedures before making a decision.

Get the full picture by visiting us at Agape Women’s Clinic. Get free pregnancy testing, ultrasound, options consultation, and more so you can make a decision you’ll feel confident about. 

Request an appointment with us today in a confidential and safe space.