What Are the Risks of Abortion?

Risk of abortion and your options in in North Austin 

When thinking about an abortion, it's essential to understand the risks that come with it. Like any medical procedure, abortion can have physical side effects and risks, which vary based on the method used. Knowing these risks is crucial for making a well-informed decision that matches your health needs and personal situation.

If you’re pregnant and unsure what to do, let Agape Women’s Clinic be your first stop. We offer pregnancy testing, options consultations, and ultrasounds so you feel supported and prepared for your next steps. Contact us today. 

Types Of Abortion

There are two types of abortion procedures: medical and surgical.

A medical abortion, commonly referred to as “the abortion pill,” is actually a series of two drugs used to terminate a pregnancy: mifepristone and misoprostol. 

A surgical abortion uses a combination of drugs, medical instruments, or suction to terminate a pregnancy and expel it and its related tissue from the uterus.

Medical Abortion Risks

During a medical abortion, which you will likely administer yourself at home, you experience abdominal cramping and vaginal bleeding. Other side effects include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, diarrhea, and headaches.

Potential risks to a medical abortion include:

• Fever
• Infection
• Digestive system discomfort
• Heavy, prolonged bleeding
• Incomplete abortion (which may require a surgical procedure)
• An ongoing pregnancy (if the drugs don’t work)

Surgical Abortion Risks

A surgical abortion is performed at a hospital or clinic. You will probably stay in a recovery area for a few hours after the procedure, allowing medical staff to monitor you for any excessive bleeding or complications. This time also helps you recuperate from the effects of the anesthesia.

The risks from a surgical abortion can be:

• Uterine perforation
• Damage to the cervix
• Infection
• Scar tissue on the uterine wall

These risks can be more severe as they could lead to Asherman's Syndrome. It can cause irregular, missing, or painful periods, as well as an increased risk of miscarriage and infertility in the future.

Get Support

These are just some of the possible risks involved in abortion procedures. Before seeking one, visit Agape Women’s Clinic. 

We offer free, limited ultrasound exams to determine gestational age, detect a fetal heartbeat, and verify that the pregnancy is in the uterus. This is critical information you’ll need to know before an abortion so you can be aware of your options.

Schedule an appointment for a pregnancy test to see if you qualify for a free ultrasound.