We know how scary the pregnancy journey can be and you are not alone as you navigate your options. If you are considering getting an abortion, you may want to understand more about the risks involved. Depending on what type of abortion you have, some risks include infection, heavy bleeding, and incomplete abortion.
Two Types of Abortion
1. Medical Abortion
Also known as ‘the abortion pill,’ medical abortion is completed in the first trimester and is only recommended for women up to 70 days gestation.
A medical abortion is a two-drug regimen that ends an existing pregnancy. Potential risks of medical abortion include:
- Incomplete abortion, which may need to be followed by surgical abortion
- An ongoing unwanted pregnancy if the procedure doesn’t work
- Heavy and prolonged bleeding
- Infection
- Fever
- Digestive system discomfort
2. Surgical Abortion
Typically, surgical abortions include anesthesia, dilation (opening) of the cervix and surgical instruments.
Women between 11 and 13 weeks have a D & C (dilation and curettage). If over 13 weeks pregnant, the abortion provider performs a D & E (dilation and evacuation). The Mayo Clinic shares some risks of surgical abortion, including:
- Perforation of the uterus
- Damage to the cervix
- Scar tissue on the uterine wall
- Infection
- Heavy bleeding
- Cramping
Why Do I Need To Understand the Risks?
Women considering an abortion deserve to understand the risks and potential impact abortion could have on their health. The Mayo Clinic states, “Talk with your health care provider to get answers to your questions, help you weigh alternatives, and consider the impact the procedure may have on your future.”
Since medical abortions are done at home, it’s important that women understand that they are responsible for understanding when a complication may arise and when it is necessary to contact their physician or emergency services.
Talk to our compassionate team today if you have more questions about the risks of abortion, and need to confirm your pregnancy.