There are physical risks and side effects that come with abortion. If you are considering this option, it’s important to understand how it may affect you physically, including infection and damage to the uterus. Keep reading to learn about all of the possible risks.
1. Medical Abortion
Medical abortion involves two different drugs: mifepristone and misoprostol. Mifepristone blocks progesterone, a vital pregnancy hormone needed to sustain a pregnancy. Secondly, misoprostol causes the uterus to contract and expel the pregnancy through the vagina.
Here are some of the physical risks of this type of abortion procedure:
- Incomplete abortion, which could lead to infection if not treated
- Continued pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
According to the Mayo Clinic, medical abortion isn’t an option if you:
Are beyond ten weeks along in your pregnancy
- Have an intrauterine device (IUD) currently in place
- Have a suspected pregnancy outside of the uterus, known as an ectopic pregnancy.
- Have certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders, certain heart or blood vessel diseases, severe liver, kidney, or lung disease, or an uncontrolled seizure disorder
- Take a blood thinner or certain steroid medicines
- Can’t make follow-up visits to your provider or don’t have access to emergency care
- Have an allergy to the drugs used
2. Surgical Abortion
A surgical abortion is a bit more invasive and typically done at an abortion clinic or hospital setting. It involves using a combination of medication, surgical instruments, and suction to remove the pregnancy from the uterus.
The most common type of surgical abortion procedure is called dilation and curettage (D&C). Some risks and complications of this surgical abortion include:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
Before Making Up Your Mind
We know you may feel rushed right now, but it’s important to understand that your health matters when it comes to a pregnancy decision. Safeguard your health by knowing the following before making a pregnancy decision regarding abortion:
- Talk with a medical professional about your medical history and overall health.
- Confirm your pregnancy and critical details with an ultrasound.
- Know how the abortion procedure works, the physical side effects, and possible risks and complications.
We can help you begin to get clarity about your pregnancy with free and confidential medical-grade pregnancy testing and an ultrasound referral.
We also offer supportive peer counseling, where we can help answer your questions and explain your options. We promise you are not alone. Contact us today.